Lasershot(sm) marking system: high-volume labeling for safety-critical parts

Abstract

This is a preprint of a paper intended for publication in a journal or proceedings. Since changes may be made before publication, this preprint is made available with the understanding that it will not be cited or reproduced without the permission of the author.

Laser engravings as reason for mechanical failure of titanium-alloyed total hip stems

“…Laser engraving is the most commercially available mean of permanent marking for medical devices [16]. The procedure works by focusing energy from a heat generated beam onto the designated surface to be marked, in the process altering the metal alloy surface [17]. Elevated temperature above 550°C caused by the laser promotes titanium to solute oxygen, a so-called ''a-case zone'' is formed at the surface leading to material embrittlement [14].…”

The Effects of Laser Marking and Symbol Etching on the Fatigue Life of Medical Devices

“…The power and duration of the laser dictate the depth of the etching. The technical details [ 1 ] for a specific laser marking device (designed to minimize fatigue issues in safety critical components) state the following: “Laser etching markers work by focusing energy directly on the surface to be marked. The heat generated by the beam actually alters the surface of the part or vaporizes surface material… in other metals (than steel), the surface is etched when material is removed by high temperature vaporization… it modifies the metal alloying and etches the surface in a way that degrades the part's strength and can lead to fatigue or stress corrosion crack failure.” …”