When it comes to lasers, the variety can feel overwhelming. But if you're sourcing machines for industrial marking, welding, or cleaning, knowing the types is not just helpful—it’s critical.
There are four main types of laser machines used in industrial applications: fiber, CO₂, UV, and green lasers. Each has unique strengths depending on the material and purpose.
If you’re a procurement manager like John, you don’t have time to guess. You need clarity on what’s available, what’s efficient, and what fits your clients' needs. That’s what I’m here to give—straight from the lens of someone who builds and sells these machines every day at Kirin Laser.
What are the different types of laser machines?
The laser machine market isn’t just about cutting and engraving anymore. It’s evolved into a specialized ecosystem.
The four most common laser machines are laser marking machines, laser welding machines, laser cutting machines, and laser cleaning machines. Each serves different industries, materials, and production goals.
Understanding the core categories
Let’s break down what these machines actually do and where they shine:
| Machine Type | Core Function | Ideal Materials | Use Case Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Marking1 | Permanent surface marking | Metal, plastic, ceramic | Serial codes on medical tools |
| Laser Welding2 | Precision metal welding | Stainless steel, aluminum | Battery packs, pressure vessels |
| Laser Cutting3 | Material separation | Acrylic, metals, wood | Sign making, sheet metal cutting |
| Laser Cleaning | Rust/paint removal | Steel, aluminum | Restoration, mold cleaning |
Each of these machines has its own sub-types, but at Kirin Laser, we help clients focus on function first. A client from an aerospace firm once asked, “Can your laser marking system handle curved titanium surfaces without losing precision?” The answer was yes, thanks to our 3D dynamic focusing system. The right machine isn’t just a purchase—it’s a long-term solution.
How many types of lasers are there?
Laser machines rely on specific types of laser sources. This is the engine behind the beam.
There are four main laser sources used in industrial equipment: fiber lasers, CO₂ lasers, UV lasers, and green lasers. Each interacts with materials in different ways.
Matching laser types to the job
Here’s what I always tell clients: the source determines the result. If you're marking medical-grade plastic, don’t choose fiber just because it’s popular. Match the wavelength to the material.
| Laser Type | Wavelength | Best For | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber1 | 1064 nm | Metals, hard plastics | Deep engraving, traceability |
| CO₂2 | 10.6 μm | Organic materials, non-metals | Wood engraving, acrylic cutting |
| UV3 | 355 nm | Sensitive plastics, glass | PCB coding, medical device marking |
| Green | 532 nm | Reflective metals, solar cells | Micro-machining, gold engraving |
One time, a distributor wanted to mark glass cosmetic bottles without cracking them. Our UV laser offered a cold marking process that made it possible. That’s why we don’t just sell machines—we help you choose the right beam for your battlefield.
What are the 4 classes of lasers?
When we talk about laser classification, we’re shifting gears to safety.
Lasers are classified into Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 based on their potential hazard level. Industrial lasers are typically Class 4 and require strict safety controls.
Safety first, performance second
As a manufacturer, safety classification1 is something I take very seriously. Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Laser Class | Description | Industrial Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Safe under all conditions | Closed laser systems |
| Class 2 | Safe for short exposure (visible light) | Barcode readers |
| Class 3 | Risky for direct eye exposure | Rare in industrial applications |
| Class 42 | High-power, hazardous to eyes/skin | Open laser systems (Kirin Laser types) |
Our fiber laser welding machines3 are all Class 4. That means we include safety enclosures, foot pedals, and interlock systems. I once had a factory in Germany delay installation because their safety officer needed proof of Class 4 shielding. We shipped documentation and videos in 24 hours—they were online the next week.
What type of laser is most efficient?
Efficiency depends on what you mean—power usage, marking speed, or result clarity.
For most metal marking and industrial engraving, fiber lasers are the most efficient in terms of speed, precision, and energy use.
Why fiber lasers dominate
Let’s look at real data. Our 30W fiber laser marking machine1 uses around 500W of power and can mark steel in under 2 seconds. That’s faster and cleaner than inkjet. But there’s more to it:
| Factor | Fiber Laser | CO₂ Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency2 | High (30–50% wall plug) | Low (5–10%) |
| Maintenance | Low (no mirrors/tubes) | Higher (mirror alignment needed) |
| Beam Quality | Excellent for metals | Better for non-metals |
| Operational Cost3 | Lower long-term | Higher for frequent use |
One of our clients in Canada switched from CO₂ to fiber for tool marking. Their electricity cost dropped by 30% and machine uptime improved. That’s not just efficiency—it’s impact.
Conclusion
Laser machines4 come in many forms, but it’s not about the quantity—it’s about the match. At Kirin Laser, we help procurement professionals and industrial leaders like John Smith make decisions that last beyond one PO. Whether you’re deep-engraving engine parts or cleaning molds in a food-grade facility, choosing the right laser type, source, and safety class makes all the difference. Fiber, CO₂, UV, or green—each has its role. And we’re here to guide you through every beam of it.
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Explore the advantages of Laser Marking technology to understand its applications and benefits in various industries. ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
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Discover how Laser Welding enhances precision and efficiency in metal fabrication processes, making it a preferred choice for many industries. ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
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Learn about the versatility of Laser Cutting and the range of materials it can process, which can help in selecting the right technology for your needs. ↩ ↩ ↩ ↩
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Learn more about laser marking machine from Kirin Laser, and clicking this link to get all types of laser marking machines. ↩
