Methods Of Applying Direct Part Marking

By Author: ID Integration
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Direct part marking is one of the methods of applying machine readable unique identification code to the items. Marking of the parts and items with globally unique identification number is becoming increasingly popular as a commercial practice across many industrial sectors. Assigning the items with UID and marking them properly for better item management and tracking was introduced by United States Department of Defense in July 2003.

The direct part marking uses 2D data matrix code for the application of the UII on the item or the part for its ability to store data more efficiently. There are four manufacturing methods of applying direct part marking.
Dot Peen
Electro Chemical Etching
Laser Marking
Ink Jet

The exact process of direct part marking on an item is determined by material composition, space for marking, production volume and environmental operation.

Dot Peen Method of Direct Part Marking
This marking technology round grooves on the surface of the part. However, it is vital that the indent should be created such that they are distinguishable from the roughness ...
... of the parts and, can trap and reflect light. The dark and light fields are formed with artificial illumination of the symbol. The readability of the symbols largely depends on the shape, size and the spacing of the modules and finishing of the part surface. For an effective dot-peen direct part marking it is important to control the elements affecting the marking methods.

Direct Part Marking by Electro Chemical Etching
The process involves oxidation or electro chemical dissolution of metal from the surface of the item or part that is being marked. The desired marking is achieved through stencil impression. Generally, the process doesn't require holding devices or fixture for operation. However, the process is generic for all components. Most of the applications of electro chemical etching require combination etching technology. It is also decided considering the materials to be marked. While selecting the appropriate system, stencil and stencil generation techniques are important considerations. Photographically etched stencil, thermal wax stencil, die impression and thermal transfer printed stencil are 4 common type of stencil material.

Direct Part Marking with Laser Marking
The laser marking process use thermal energy of the laser beam to change, melt or vaporize the surface of the part. Laser markings are not suitable in many circumstances for the interaction of the laser beam on the surface of the material. The marking technology is allowed only after complete verification of the material. As most of the quality checking criteria is based on metallographic assessment, laser part marking is different from other kinds of marking.

Ink Jet Marking process for Direct Part Marking
This marking technique propels ink drops to the surface of the items that are being marked. In many conditions, ink jet marking is considered as semi permanent marking system. The prime use of ink jet marking is to support the initial build configuration.

Direct part marking is considered when an item is not suitable for using nameplates or labels. However, the marking method requires careful attention while entering data.

Uid2go is a premier supplier of direct part marking that are 100% verified and meet UID MIL-STD-130 requirements. It has helped numerous customers in UID registration products to register data to the UID Central Registry.