Organic Precision: Large-Format CO2 Laser Engraving
How We Use CO₂ Laser Engraving
We also utilise a CO₂ laser engraver, which is primarily used for our wood-based products. The engraving process is similar in principle to fibre laser engraving, and for efficiency we often batch CO₂ and fibre laser artwork preparation together during daily production setup.
Our CO₂ Laser Equipment
Our workshop is equipped with a HPC LS6840 PRO large-format CO₂ laser, powered by a 50-watt laser tube—more than sufficient for the materials and level of detail required for our product range.
The laser operates using X and Y coordinate mapping, with the engraving data loaded directly into the machine’s internal controller prior to engraving. During operation, the laser engraves in a consistent horizontal scanning motion from left to right, ensuring even coverage and repeatable results across larger surface areas.
right: A Royal Air Force Crest on a Vintage Wood Water Ski engraved on our CO₂ Laser Machine
Materials and Capabilities
We primarily use our CO₂ laser for engraving wood, wood-based products, and genuine leather. It can also cut materials such as acrylic and thin wood sheets when needed.
CO₂ lasers can’t engrave bare metal, but they can mark metal using a specialist spray (e.g. Cermark) that bonds to the surface when lasered. This is a surface mark, not deep engraving, so it may wear over time.
The metal plate shown (left) was produced using this method on a CO₂ laser. We created the artwork, but the engraving was outsourced to another workshop.
Engraving Characteristics
Compared to fibre lasers, CO₂ lasers have a larger laser spot size, which results in slightly less fine detail. However, this characteristic makes them ideal for organic materials such as wood and leather, where a clean, bold engraved finish is preferred.
CO₂ laser systems also require active cooling. Our machine uses a water-based cooling system, circulating coolant through the laser tube to prevent overheating during operation and to maintain consistent engraving performance.
When CO₂ Laser Engraving Is the Best Choice
CO₂ laser engraving is particularly well suited to larger wooden items, leather products, and applications where material compatibility and surface finish are more important than ultra-fine detail. It complements our fibre laser and diamond engraving processes, allowing us to select the most appropriate method for each product.