Download Project Files

Laser Batch Engrave Pens

Materials Needed

Pens

AlgoOS Laser System →

Machine Used

AlgoLaser Alpha MK2

Laser Cutting

Line 1/Speed 1

400

Power

100%

Pass

Laser Engraving

Line 1/Speed 1

20000

Power

100%

Line Interval

0.1mm

Pass

How to Laser Batch Engrave Pens with the Alpha MK2 Laser Engraver

Batch engraving pens is a highly efficient way to customize multiple pens at once using the Alpha MK2 Laser Engraver. Whether you're creating personalized gifts, promotional items, or custom merchandise, batch engraving allows for precision and consistency across all items. Below, we’ll walk you through a 5-step process for laser engraving pens, along with the cutting and engraving parameters tailored to the Alpha MK2 (20W) laser engraver.

Step 1: Preparing the Pens and Material

The first step in the batch engraving process is preparing the pens and the material that will hold them in place during engraving.

Cutting the Base Material: Start by cutting a piece of plywood to hold your pens securely. Use the laser engraver to cut slots in the plywood to accommodate the pens. The slots should be sized based on the pen dimensions you want to engrave on.
Measuring Pen Size: Use calipers to measure the dimensions of the pens (length and diameter) so that the slots fit perfectly. You’ll also use these measurements later when setting up your engraving area.
Slot Positioning: Place the pens into the slots and ensure they’re seated securely, ready for engraving.

Step 2: Setting Up the Laser Focus

Proper focus is critical to achieving clean, crisp engravings. The Alpha MK2 Laser Engraver has a focusing column to adjust the laser height for optimum focus.

Adjust the Laser Module: Use the focusing column to adjust the laser module to the correct height. This ensures the laser is focused precisely on the surface of the pen.
Verify Focus: Ensure the laser beam is sharp and clear by observing the size of the laser spot. This ensures the engraving is clear and detailed.

Step 3: Preparing the Design in LightBurn

Now, you’re ready to import your design and set up the engraving parameters in LightBurn.

Import Your Design: Drag and drop your design (e.g., logo or text) into LightBurn. You can rotate or resize the design as needed to fit within the pen slot.
Set Up Engraving Boundaries: Use the rectangle tool in LightBurn to draw a boundary around each pen. Adjust the width and height of the rectangle to match the size of the pen slot.
Matrix Tool Setup: If you’re batch engraving multiple pens, use the Matrix Tool to set the number of copies (cuts) you want to make in the X and Y directions. This tool helps you efficiently align multiple engravings.

Step 4: Setting Engraving and Cutting Parameters

Once the design is in place, it’s time to adjust the cutting and engraving parameters for the Alpha MK2 (20W).

Here are the recommended cutting and engraving settings:

Cutting Parameters (For Slotting the Plywood)

Line-Speed: 400 mm/min
Power: 100%
Passes: 1

These settings will ensure the laser cuts through the plywood cleanly to create the pen slots.

Engraving Parameters (For Pen Engraving)

Fill-Speed: 20,000 mm/min
Power: 100%
Line-Interval: 0.1 mm
Passes: 1

These settings are ideal for engraving on the pens, ensuring high-speed engraving with detailed, clear results. The line interval of 0.1mm will give a fine, detailed engraving, while the fill speed ensures efficient processing.

Step 5: Start the Engraving Process

With everything set up, it's time to run the engraving.

Home the Machine: Click on Home to ensure the laser is in the correct starting position.
Frame the Work Area: Click the Frame button in LightBurn to check the alignment of your design with the pens.
Close the Enclosure Lid: For safety, close the enclosure lid before starting the engraving.
Start Engraving: Finally, click Start to begin the engraving process. The Alpha MK2 will follow the matrix pattern and engrave the design on each pen in the slots.

6. FAQs About Laser Engraving Pens

1. What type of pens work best for laser engraving? Pens with a smooth surface—whether metal, plastic, or coated—are ideal for laser engraving. Avoid pens with intricate designs or irregular surfaces.

2. How do I avoid damaging the pens during engraving? To avoid damage, adjust the power and speed settings based on the material of the pen. A lower power and faster speed typically work best for delicate materials.

3. Can I engrave both text and logos? Yes, LightBurn allows you to import vector files (for logos) and create text designs. Both can be engraved on the pens easily.

4. How long does the engraving process take? The time depends on factors like the complexity of the design and the number of pens. Generally, batch engraving can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour.

5. Is it possible to engrave on other materials besides pens? Absolutely! The Alpha MK2 Laser Engraver can also be used to engrave on wood, acrylic, leather, and various other materials.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to efficiently laser batch engrave pens using the Alpha MK2 Laser Engraver, ensuring precision and high-quality results. Whether you're engraving a logo, text, or custom designs, this process will help you achieve professional outcomes every time.

7. Final Tips

Monitor the Process: Always monitor the engraving process to ensure the pens are secure in the slots and that the engraving is going as planned.
Material Considerations: Test your settings on a single pen before proceeding with the batch to make sure you’re getting the desired results.
Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear, such as protective eyewear, and ensure the workspace is well-ventilated.

By following these steps and using the Alpha MK2 Laser Engraver with the recommended parameters, you'll be able to efficiently and professionally batch engrave pens for any project.