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How Photo Laser Engraving Is Done

Photo laser engraving is a method of engraving that makes use of photographic processes. Photos that are laser engraved were very popular nowadays because of its decorative value and the ability to preserve the replica of the actual photo. Many people love receiving laser engraved photos and that is why there are numerous shops that specializes in photo laser-engraving.

 

Aside from the typical photographs, photo engraving is also used in a different industries such as medical, computer, electronics and aerospace. It is also utilized to produce printed circuit boards, printing plates, foil-stamping dies, embossing dies, nameplates and plaques.

 

But one thing to know about photo laser engraving is that the final product will only look as good as the photograph being engraved. This means that photographs should be clear and scratch-free to yield best result. Photographs with simple backgrounds are more appropriate.

 

The photograph used in photo laser engraving underwent several editing procedures to generate best image in black, white and gray format. The ideal resolution for photo laser-engraving is 300 DPI and up. And always remember that larger resolution yields better result. Likewise, if you will be required to scan the picture, it is recommended to scan it on a grayscale setting.

 

If you are going to submit the photograph that you want to be engraved, the most common image format accepted in photo laser-engraving is the JPEG file. Some also accept images that are saved in Tiff, bitmap or PSD file format.

 

And if you are wondering how photo laser engraving is done, there are two procedures that can be used to create a laser-engraved photo: the use of photoresist and the use of intaglio printing plates.

 

The first typical procedure in photo engraving involves the application of photosensitive material called photoresist to a metal. When this is applied, parts of the metal are toughened by light shown through a photographic negative. The photoresist is then developed after removing the unhardened parts through rinsing the material in solvent.

 

The second method of photo laser engraving is through intaglio printing plates. This process involves the creation of shallow dipped in the copper or brass. During this process, a nitric acid mixture and oil is dispensed on the copper or brass while it is held face-down, creating a profound engraving with angled shoulders.