What is needed is a non-contaminating, fully automated I.D. marking technology which will survive the process and which provides high contrast and high resolution marks suitable for standard bar codes, variable plus fixed information, and even logos. Therefore, direct surface marking using YAG lasers is not practical. It can, however, mark an applied paint patch. It is unnecessary to fully dry either coat prior to laser marking. The paint coats are applied using conventional air nebulized fan spray nozzles.
Laser marking is performed while the two layer patch is drying.
The marking, being on the I.D. is protected while it dries. O.D. marks would require hot air drying assist after marking and prior to either conveyor or roll table handling. A short walking beam handler might be appropriate after marking. An important advantage of this marker is its ability to image high quality bar codes. Logos such as the API symbol are stored in the marker's non-volatile memory and can be scaled and imaged at any label location.