Dot Peen Marking on Unconventional Surfaces: Is it Possible?

3D stylus functions on sloping planes, out-of-flat and deformed surfaces.

Conventional dot peen marking systems are limited to flat surfaces when etching markings. Marking at different heights, in hard to reach areas and over slopes or curves couldn’t be done.

A new 3D stylus, released by Technifor, is changing how dot peen marking is done. This stylus has an amplitude of 16mm.

This high amplitude allows the stylus tip to perform markings over sloping planes, out-of-flat and deformed surfaces by extending and retracting automatically as it follows the relief. Additional devices like part rotation systems are no longer needed.

The 3D stylus can also perform “stepped” marking on different levels of the same workpiece within a single cycle. Without the need for an actuator, the marking head can engrave in recesses, hollows and difficult to reach areas.

The 3D stylus is able to absorb height distances and does not require programming a Z axis on the marking head when dealing with parts of varying heights on an automated line.

The stylus is also quickly and easily adjustable for manual or semi-automatic production operations with only a single marking file for a variety of parts.

Technifor states the quality of Data Matrix codes is close to the results obtained with electromagnetic technology, with a homogeneity and perfect alignment of points – simplifying code reading.

Check out this video to see the 3D stylus in action.

The stylus is compatible with Technifor’s range of pneumatic machines.

For more information on Technifor and their 3D stylus, visit www.technifor.com.