An interesting project that falls between high technology materials processing and the arts. These steel balls were perfectly rounded and coated with a very high impact coating normally associated with the aircraft industry.
Although the laser marked image suggests the mark is black, it is in fact silver. We removed the white coating to expose the base material. It is the light reflection that gives it the black image in the photograph.
We did try to colour mark the base materials, using the laser marking system in CW mode, however, found that the coating discoloured when too much heat was applied.
The markings, consisting of a range of Islamic prophets, were to be laser marked around the circumference. A rotary indexer was used to rotate while marking the relevant information onto the ball. Although the laser marking process does become slower due to the indexing, it is the only format that can be used for such applications. The ball has a hole running through the middle to attach the rope, where they were to be suspended. This hole is also being used for mounting the parts for marking.
The parts came in white and black and, when mounted formed hanging displays in a range of European museums showcasing Islamic art around the world.
If you would like further information on this laser marking application, or any others please contact us on 01737 826902
