What should you not laser engrave?

There are certain materials that should not be laser engraved due to safety concerns, potential damage to the material, or the release of harmful fumes. Here are some materials that are generally not suitable for laser engraving:

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC contains chlorine, and when laser engraved, it releases toxic chlorine gas. Laser engraving PVC can be hazardous to both the operator and the laser system. It is recommended to avoid laser engraving PVC or any materials that contain PVC.

Vinyl and other materials with adhesive backing: Materials with adhesive backing, such as vinyl stickers or labels, can release harmful fumes and damage the laser system. The adhesive can melt and cause residue buildup on the laser lens or other components.

Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material that can release harmful fumes when laser engraved. The fumes can be toxic and may damage the laser system. It is generally not recommended to laser engrave polycarbonate.

Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA): PVA is a water-soluble polymer commonly used in glue sticks and other adhesives. Laser engraving PVA can release harmful fumes and create a sticky residue that can damage the laser system.

Teflon (Polytetrafluoroethylene or PTFE): Laser engraving Teflon can release toxic fumes, including fluorine gas. These fumes can be harmful to both the operator and the laser system. It is best to avoid laser engraving Teflon.

Reflective materials: Highly reflective materials, such as mirrors or metallic surfaces, can reflect the laser beam back into the laser system, potentially causing damage to the optics or other components. It is generally not recommended to laser engrave highly reflective materials without appropriate precautions.

Some types of glass: Certain types of glass, particularly tempered or coated glass, can be challenging to laser engrave. The laser may not effectively mark the glass or may cause the glass to shatter due to uneven heating.

It is important to consult the manufacturer's guidelines, safety data sheets (SDS), or other reliable sources for specific materials to determine their suitability for laser engraving. Additionally, proper ventilation, safety precautions, and adherence to laser system manufacturer recommendations are essential when working with any materials for laser engraving.