Laser subsurface engraving (SSE) is a revolutionary technique that enables 3D images, text, and designs to be embedded within transparent materials such as crystal, glass, and acrylic. By focusing a UV laser inside the material, tiny fractures (or "bubbles") are created without damaging the surface. These fractures combine to form a precise and intricate image, giving the appearance of a floating 3D object inside the material.
Our high-definition laser subsurface engraving machines use ultraviolet (UV) lasers, which produce smaller focal points than traditional green-light lasers, allowing us to capture fine details that were previously unattainable.
Applications of Laser Subsurface Engraving
Subsurface engraving offers countless opportunities for customization and artistic expression. Common applications include:
- Awards and Trophies: High-end glass and crystal awards with intricate 3D designs embedded within.
- Corporate Gifts: Personalized items such as crystal plaques, ornaments, and paperweights for employee recognition or client appreciation.
- Home Décor: 3D-etched crystal or glass pieces that add elegance to any space.
- Architectural Displays: Glass or acrylic elements featuring 3D engravings for interior design or art installations.
- Souvenirs: Custom-designed keepsakes that preserve memories in stunning 3D form.
Subsurface Engraving vs. Surface Engraving
Unlike surface engraving, which only creates two-dimensional designs on the surface of a material, subsurface engraving generates three-dimensional images within the material itself. This allows viewers to admire the design from any angle, giving the piece a unique depth and a sense of realism that surface engraving cannot achieve. Additionally, subsurface engraving leaves the external surface of the object untouched, preserving its smoothness and transparency.
The Advantages of Our Laser Subsurface Engraving Machines
Our UV laser subsurface engraving machines offer several key advantages over traditional options on the market:
- Superior Detail: By utilizing UV lasers, our machines produce finer laser spots, capturing more intricate details than those using green-light lasers. This results in sharper, clearer images that are rich in complexity.
- Cost-Effective: Despite their advanced capabilities, our machines are priced at a fraction of what most subsurface engraving machines cost—typically between one-third to one-half of the price, making high-quality engraving more accessible.
- Precision & Versatility: Our machines are capable of handling both subsurface engraving and traditional surface marking on materials such as plastic, wood, leather, and more.
- Wider Application: Beyond 3D subsurface engraving, the ApexRay also supports precise surface marking on a wide range of materials — including plastic, glass, wood, leather, paper, and silicone. This versatility makes it an all-in-one solution for both artistic creations and industrial applications.
Advanced Software for Enhanced Customization
Our proprietary software takes the engraving process to the next level. It supports 3D formats such as STL, GLB and OBJ files, allowing for the creation of complex, customized designs. Users can easily adjust parameters such as point spacing, number of layers, layer spacing, laser energy, and duration to achieve the desired effect. With our advanced visualization tools, users can preview the final results in detail before starting the engraving, simplifying the process of fine-tuning and debugging designs.
Explore Our Products
We offer two primary models for laser subsurface engraving:
- Compact Desktop UV Laser Engraving Machine: Ideal for small businesses and workshops, this space-saving model provides all the functionality of a professional-grade engraver in a smaller package.
- Tabletop UV Laser Engraving Machine: Designed for larger-scale production, this model offers greater power and speed for high-volume engraving projects. Both machines are not only perfect for subsurface engraving but also capable of performing surface marking on a wide range of materials, including plastic, wood, silicone, glass, leather, and paper.
Contact Us to Learn More
Ready to take your engraving projects to the next level? Contact us today for more information on our HD laser subsurface engraving machines and how they can transform your business. Our team is here to answer your questions and provide expert guidance.
