How to Choose Between Part Marking, Air Scribing, and Pin Stamping
When it comes to etching your parts, there are several options to consider, such as nitrogen marking, pin stamping, air tool scribing, and argon marking — each with its own pros and cons. Adding a marking tool to a CNC plasma table can greatly enhance a fabricating or manufacturing company’s capabilities by allowing detailed, precise markings directly on metal parts without additional steps or setups. This is valuable for part identification, assembly instructions, or layout lines, ultimately improving production efficiency and reducing errors.
The right marking method for your business will depend on your specific needs, so understanding these options can help you make an informed decision. Below, we break down each method in detail to guide you toward the best choice for your organization. Let’s dive in.
What is Pin Stamping?
Pin stamping is a popular choice for companies that need a durable and permanent marking solution for metal parts. This method uses small, hardened steel pins to rapidly indent dots onto a part’s surface, creating deep, precise marks that remain visible even in harsh environments such as extreme temperatures, abrasive conditions, or exposure to chemicals and UV light. When these dots are organized by a CNC system, the patterns created can reflect an alphanumeric symbol or 2D geometry. Pin stamping is especially effective for parts used in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or heavy machinery, where parts often face corrosive elements, high-pressure washes, or rough handling. One key advantage is that pin-stamped marks remain readable even when painted or coated, making them an excellent option for parts that undergo finishing processes. The marks are also tamper-proof, as they are physically etched into the material, unlike surface markings that can be removed or altered.
Common pin stamping systems operate at speeds of around 150 inches per minute (ipm), which translates to about four seconds per digit, making them efficient for high-volume production environments. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Pin stamping systems can be quite noisy during operation, which might require additional noise control measures. The mechanical complexity of the equipment also means regular maintenance is needed to ensure reliability and prevent downtime. Despite these cons, the longevity and durability of pin stamping make it a practical choice for businesses needing robust part marking solutions.
What is Air Scribing?
Air scribing is an effective marking solution for companies that require precise and shallow markings on metal and other hard surfaces. This method uses a pneumatically driven stylus to “scribe” or scratch the surface of the material, creating clean and clear lines or characters without significant depth. Air scribing is well-suited for parts that don’t need deep marks but still require clear identification or branding. This might include the automotive, aerospace, or electronics industries, where smooth finishes or delicate parts are common. One of the key advantages of air scribing is its ability to produce low-stress marks, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of thinner materials or components with critical structural properties. The markings are also highly visible and can be left exposed or covered with a thin layer of paint or coating without losing legibility.
Air scribing systems typically operate at speeds faster than pin stamping, providing a quicker marking solution for high-throughput environments. However, the process is less effective in harsh environments where the marks could wear away due to abrasion or corrosion, making it less ideal for applications requiring extreme durability. Additionally, while air scribing tends to be quieter than pin stamping, it is still relatively loud and may require hearing protection. Also, it still involves mechanical components that may require regular maintenance. The relatively shallow marks are also not as tamper-proof as pin stamping, they can be altered or removed more easily than deeper stamped marks. Despite these limitations, air scribing offers a reliable, efficient, and low-impact marking method for many industrial applications.
What is Marking?
Marking with a plasma torch is a practical method for companies that need quick, non-intrusive marking on metal surfaces without requiring extreme precision. Plasma marking can be done using different gasses like argon or nitrogen, each offering unique benefits. Argon, in particular, provides a high-quality finish with greater legibility and accuracy than some other marking methods, making it suitable for marking simple part numbers, batch codes, or identification lines in industries like heavy equipment, construction, and general metal fabrication. The low heat input associated with argon marking reduces the risk of material deformation, making it a good choice for parts that need to undergo secondary processes like galvanizing, painting, or powder coating. However, argon marking involves the ongoing cost of bottled gas, which can become expensive over time, and heavy scoring can lead to top-side slag on steel. The minimum recommended character height for legibility is four millimeters.
The process itself relies on a CNC machine that can precisely control the depth of the mark, allowing for cutting and marking out of the same plasma torch. Additionally, plasma marking works well on wet or oily plates, avoiding the clogging and humidity issues common with powder marking. While argon offers a deeper score and a cleaner finish, nitrogen is a more economical option. However, nitrogen requires higher heat input, especially on thin metals, which can result in wider, less precise marks. Marks made with nitrogen may appear jagged on aluminum, and the recommended character height for visibility is eight millimeters. Although each gas has its pros and cons, the choice depends on the specific needs of the marking application, including cost, material type, and desired marking quality.
Part Marking, Pin Stamping, or Air Scribing: What’s Right for You?
If you’re trying to decide between part marking, pin stamping, or air scribing, reach out to the experts at AKS Cutting Systems. We have samples on stand by of all these technologies for reference. Also, we can get to know your business’s needs and recommend the right option for your requirements. Leveraging over 100 years of experience, we know what will be most efficient and cost-effective for your application.
We are a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated company that’s proud to make our equipment in the United States. When you need durable plasma and waterjet cutting systems, rely on us. Contact us today for more information.