Can We Control the Color of Laser Printing?
When it comes to Laser Marking On Cables, one of the most common questions we receive is:
"Can you control the color of the print?"
The short answer is: No, we cannot manually control the color.
But the real explanation is much more fascinating—and rooted in physics and materials science.
The Science Behind Uv Laser Printing
At Herten Laser, our UV laser printer (HRU series) operates at a wavelength below 0.4μm (400nm), which gives the laser beam high single-photon energy. This enables a photochemical reaction to occur on the cable surface.
Instead of burning or melting the material, the UV laser breaks the chemical bonds between molecules directly, causing microscopic material removal. This process is known as "cold marking" and creates high-contrast markings without thermal damage.
The final color of the mark is a result of:
The base material of the cable (PVC, HDPE, XLPE, etc.)
The additives or pigments in the compound
The wavelength and energy level of the laser
For example, on black PVC, UV laser usually produces a white or light gray mark. On transparent or light-colored materials, it may create dark or frosted effects. But the color change is not something we can define in advance or customize—it’s determined by how the material reacts to the laser.
Why This Matters in Cable Manufacturing
The goal of laser marking is not just appearance—it’s about durability, clarity, and efficiency.
✅ No consumables – No ink, no solvent, no maintenance on print heads.
✅ High speed – Marking speeds up to 900m/min depending on the content.
✅ Excellent contrast – Even on small-diameter cables.
✅ Eco-friendly – No pollution, no emissions.
Want to See the Actual Effect?
Since each material reacts differently, we always recommend a sample test before finalizing your solution. Send us your cable samples, and we’ll show you exactly how the laser print looks.
For testing, consultation, or more technical details, feel free to contact our team at laser.marker@hertenlaser.com