A Guide to Metal Compatibility with OMTech Laser Engravers

One of the first things people ask when they step near a laser cutter is, Can I engrave metal with this thing? You can, sure, but the catch is that not every laser is built for every job. Whether you're a weekend maker, a small-business operator, or just a curious hobbyist, knowing how each machine treats different metals will save you time and wasted work. In this guide, OMTech walks through how each metal responds to laser energy, how to pick the right unit, and how to keep the process smooth for users here in Australia.

Understanding Metal and Laser Compatibility

Unlike wood or acrylic, metals are dense, reflective, and heat-conductive, which makes them a more challenging material to engrave. That’s why it’s important to match your laser cutter with the right kind of metal, depending on your goals — whether it's simple surface marking or deep engraving.

Metals differ from wood or acrylic in that they are dense, shiny, and very good at carrying heat, so engraving them takes more care and exact settings. Because of that, you need to match the laser power and speed to the type of result you want -whether a light mark that barely touches the surface or a deeper cut that removes significant material.

1. CO2 Lasers 

The bread-and-butter CO2 laser, found in models such as OMTechs Polar, handles wood, acrylic, leather, and glass with ease and can also mark some coated metals. Without an assistive marking fluid or special coating, though, a stock CO2 tube struggles to engrave clean lines on bare stainless steel, aluminium or brass because those materials reflect much of the beam away.

That aside, the neat little OMTech Polar, a CO2 model, easily marks anodised aluminium with good contrast.

2. Fibre Lasers

Fibre lasers are built specifically for engraving metals. They generate a laser beam with a wavelength that is readily absorbed by metallic surfaces, allowing for deep, permanent marks on materials such as stainless steel, brass, copper, aluminium, titanium, and more. They are faster, more precise, and don’t require consumables like marking spray.

For those who work primarily with metal or require engraving on bare metals, investing in an OMTech fibre laser engraver is a smart and long-term solution.

3. MOPA Fibre Lasers

The MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) fibre laser is a specialised version that provides greater control over pulse duration and frequency, enabling a broader range of engraving effects. Notably, MOPA lasers can create colour markings on stainless steel, making them ideal for intricate logos, decorative work, and high-end branding. They are also better suited for heat-sensitive metals like aluminium.

Which OMTech Laser Should You Choose Based on Metal Type?

To help you quickly understand which machine suits your needs, here’s a comparison table:

If you're unsure which to choose, consider how often you’ll work with metals, your desired engraving depth and finish, and your budget. For occasional light marking, a CO2 laser cutter like the OMTech Polar might suffice. But if you’re running a business that requires consistent, professional results on raw metals, a fibre or MOPA laser is a better long-term investment.

How to Operate Your OMTech Laser Engraver for Metal

OMTech designs machines that balance power with usability. Whether you’re a seasoned fabricator or a curious beginner, the process of metal engraving with OMTech is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare Your Surface
   Clean the metal thoroughly. For CO2 machines, apply a metal marking agent (like CerMark or LaserBond) evenly over the area to be engraved. Let it dry completely.
2. Create Your Design
   Use LightBurn (included with many OMTech models) or your preferred graphic software to prepare your artwork. Make sure the file is high-resolution and vector-based for best results.
3. Set Your Parameters
   Adjust power, speed, and frequency according to your material and machine type. OMTech provides recommended settings for different metals and thicknesses in user manuals and online support guides.
4. Run a Test Pass
   Always perform a test run on a scrap or corner to ensure your settings produce the desired effect. This saves time, materials, and frustration.
5. Start the Engraving Process
   Initiate the engraving process and monitor the machine. With fibre or MOPA lasers, you’ll notice clean lines and crisp detail without the need for pre-treatment.
6. Post-Process Cleaning
   Once engraving is complete, clean off any residue. If a marking agent was used, wipe off any remaining film using alcohol and a cloth.

Why OMTech? Trusted Performance for Australian Makers

OMTech isn’t just a laser engraver brand — it’s a community of makers, educators, small business owners, and DIYers across Australia and beyond. Here’s why OMTech stands out:

• Wide Range of Machines – From entry-level CO2 lasers like the Polar, to high-precision fibre and MOPA lasers, there’s a perfect fit for every creator.
• Local Support – Fast shipping and after-sales assistance from our Australian-based store: omtechlaser.au
• Easy to Use – Intuitive software and clear documentation make OMTech machines accessible to all experience levels.
• Power & Precision – Our engravers deliver detailed, consistent results — ideal for commercial or artistic use.
• Vibrant Community – Join thousands of creators and entrepreneurs sharing tips, ideas, and inspiration.

Whether you're engraving jewellery tags, creating machine parts, or marking tools with barcodes, OMTech helps you elevate your work with professional-grade results.

Engraving metal isn’t just possible — it’s highly effective when you choose the right machine for the job. From CO2 laser cutters like the Polar to advanced fibre and MOPA laser engravers, OMTech offers machines tailored to different needs, budgets, and skill levels. With a focus on quality, accessibility, and community, OMTech continues to empower Australians to turn ideas into tangible, lasting creations.