Cermark Tape

[Carol Barbero]

Hello All:
I have a quick question; I know when you engrave mirrors you have to do it from the back because the mirror would reflect the laser and it wouldn't work (I think that's why anyway). What about when you engrave something very shiny like a stainless money clip. Do you have to use something like Cermark Tape or some other specialty item?
Thanks,

[Martin Boekers]

I have engraved mirrors from the front, I doesnt' look very good at all.

You get a double image effect as it catches its own reflection,

If you have a CO2 laser your not powerful enough to mark it alone so you do need a compound like Cermark.

I haven't had much luck with it, but I know others in the forum use it alot.

You might do a search on the forum for Cermark, you should find some info there.

Marty

[Gary Hair]

Carol,
Ferro recommends a laser of at least 45 watts for use with their tape.

Gary

[Dave Johnson29]

when you engrave mirrors you have to do it from the back because the mirror would reflect the laser and it wouldn't work

Hi Carol,

Urban myth. Engraving from the front the laser energy would be completely absorbed by the glass before it gets to the mirror. Front engraving works fine but it looks bad for the reason Martin mentioned.

Now, if the reflective coating was on the front (engraving) surface of the mirror, reflection would be a real issue.