How to Choose the Best Wood Type for Laser Engraving
All woods have different components that affect how they interact with the laser beam. When choosing the right wood for your project, it is crucial to consider the color of the wood. Darker woods often have laser-etched markings that are harder to see. In contrast, lighter woods will have deep, deep burns when etched, resulting in more pronounced clear marks. By taking the time to consider the color of the wood, you can ensure that your final project will have the best possible detail and visibility.
An important aspect is to check the resin content. Resin is a viscous solid organic material found mainly in plants. When the electromagnetic laser beam hits the wood surface, the resinous polymer is first burned, followed by other wood tissue. In this case, wood with higher resin density will burn deeper, while wood with lower resin content will burn lighter. Simple contrasting designs are more professional than darker or more refined designs. Therefore, it is crucial to check the resin content of the wood you choose.
Another key factor to consider is choosing wood with the least streaks. Wood stripes generally make the wood more reflective and resistant to external bacterial attack. In most cases, the producer of the wood will strip it before selling it, as doing so will make the wood more durable. In this case, it is crucial to consider wood streaks before laser printing.
Also, it is highly recommended to choose lighter woods for higher design quality. In contrast to dark wood, lighter wood can provide a more visible and high-quality layout. In this case, the base color of the wood will remain similar to its original color. As a result, the dark body will have dark burns when carving the wood surface, and the patterned text will be difficult to read. Also, photos on engraved surfaces will be blurry and unprofessional. In contrast, lighter woods will have dark and deep burns during the etching process, giving you clearly defined marks for maximum visibility.
Finally, when it comes to wood laser engraving, choosing the best wood species is critical. While most woods are technically suitable for laser engraving, some are better than others. According to most laser engravers, alder, cherry, basswood, balsa, veneer, plywood, and maple are the best woods for laser engraving.