No, fiber lasers cannot directly engrave clear glass because glass does not absorb their 1064nm wavelength. However, workarounds exist—such as using coated glass, laser marking sprays, or adhesive tape—to create visible marks.
The Problem: Why This Matters
A customer once struggled to engrave glass with a fiber laser, assuming it could handle all materials. His failed attempts led to wasted time and potential losses. To avoid costly mistakes, it’s crucial to understand the right laser for the job.
Fiber lasers are ineffective on clear, uncoated glass, as the beam passes through without marking the surface. However, using coatings, sprays, or adhesive layers allows fiber lasers to leave a visible mark. While these methods work, CO₂ or UV lasers are better suited for clean, precise glass engraving.