UK distributor Laser Lines has revealed details of a recent application to use laser marking to aid traceability of polypropylene battery covers. The codes provide a permanent easily readable code without the use of inks or paper labels for a perfect green labelling solution. The company distributes the complete range of Synrad CO2 lasers, which are well suited to this laser marking application.
International Battery (IB) is a green technology company providing environmentally friendly, large format, rechargeable lithium-ion cells and batteries. The outer covers of their battery cells are made from fire retardant polypropylene (FR PP) and require both in-process and after-the-sale traceability for each cell. However, traditional adhesive printed labels did not adhere well to the polypropylene surface and were prone to lifting or peeling. While searching for a better, more permanent method of identification, IB contacted Synrad and discovered that CO2 laser marking was the perfect solution for them. The laser mark is permanent and easy to read, and it also eliminates the consumables inherent in other marking processes, like ink or paper labels, which further reinforces International Battery’s green business philosophy.
A CO2 laser mark on FR polypropylene provides no physical colour change; however, the polypropylene does vaporise cleanly, which creates deep good quality engraved marks. These permanently engraved, clearly readable marks are perfect for applications that require traceability over the lifetime of the product. There is also enough mark contrast for readable 2D codes allowing International Battery to implement a more efficient and robust identification system.
