Choosing the Right Laser Coder: A Breakdown of Squid Ink’s Laser Marking Systems
Introduction
Laser coding has taken off for product marking across a wide range of industries, offering permanent, high-speed, and eco-conscious alternatives to traditional ink-based systems. But with so many laser types and configurations available, it’s important to understand which system best suits your specific application.
At Squid Ink, we offer a full range of laser marking solutions—each designed with unique capabilities to match industry demands. From CO₂ systems ideal for packaging to fiber lasers built for metal marking, and UV lasers tailored for sensitive plastics, this guide will help you compare the differences between our most popular laser coders. We’ll also introduce the SQ-LFX Fume Extraction System, a vital component for maintaining a safe, clean production environment.
Understanding Laser Coding Technologies
Before exploring individual models, it’s helpful to understand the types of laser technology and their ideal use cases:
- CO₂ Lasers are best suited for organic materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic, wood, and glass.
- Fiber Lasers are optimized for marking metals and high-density plastics with speed and precision.
- UV Lasers use a low-heat process that prevents damage to soft, sensitive materials like flexible plastics.
Each Squid Ink laser system is engineered with real-world applications in mind to provide efficient, permanent, and reliable coding across a wide range of substrates.
Squid Ink Laser Systems: Feature-by-Feature Comparison
SQ-10: Compact and Cost-Effective CO₂ Laser
The SQ-10 CO₂ laser coder is an excellent solution for companies seeking an entry-level laser system that balances performance and cost. With a 10W laser output and scribing technology, it creates razor-sharp, permanent marks on packaging materials like cardboard, paper, plastic, and wood.
This system is designed for general-purpose primary coding in food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The SQ-10 features an intuitive touchscreen interface, a 90-degree rotatable laser head for flexible installation, and a clean, ink-free operation that minimizes long-term costs.
Ideal applications include date codes, lot numbers, and barcodes where continuous inkjet systems are less practical.
SQ310-C-A & SQ610-C-A: High-Performance CO₂ Lasers for Fast-Paced Production
For more demanding environments, the SQ310-C-A and SQ610-C-A models offer higher power configurations (30W and 60W) and superior throughput. These systems are capable of marking at speeds up to 300 meters per minute, making them ideal for high-speed production lines.
They support both static and continuous marking, along with complex message capabilities like logos, mixed fonts, and 2D barcodes. The optional 9.3µm wavelength configuration makes these models especially effective for coding PET bottles in the beverage industry.
Built for reliability, these models feature a rugged, IP54-rated aluminum body and integrated safety controls. Their compact design and removable touchscreen controller make them suitable for facilities with limited space.
SQ-F-A: Precision Fiber Laser for Metal and Industrial Applications
The SQ-F-A fiber laser system is designed specifically for industries that require durable, high-contrast marking on metal components. It is well-suited for automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical device manufacturing, and other sectors where part traceability is critical.
With a 1064nm laser wavelength, the SQ-F-A delivers permanent codes on stainless steel, copper, anodized aluminum, and even precious metals. It also handles plastics, rubber, ceramics, and composite materials with ease. The system reaches marking speeds up to 1200mm/s and integrates smoothly into high-volume lines.
The SQ-F-A operates with near-zero maintenance and requires no consumables, reducing total cost of ownership. It includes advanced anti-counterfeiting and traceability features, making it a top choice for industrial applications.
SQ-UV-A: Low-Heat UV Laser for Sensitive Substrates
The SQ-UV-A stands apart for its ability to mark sensitive plastics and delicate materials with minimal heat stress. It uses a 355nm wavelength UV laser, making it ideal for food, beverage, pharmaceutical, chemical, and pipe manufacturing applications.
Available in 5W, 10W, 17W, and 20W power options, the system is water-cooled to support faster line speeds and extend laser longevity. It delivers high-contrast codes on substrates like PE, HDPE, LDPE, PP, ABS, and PVC—materials that are often prone to warping or distortion under traditional laser systems.
Like other Squid Ink laser models, the SQ-UV-A features a simple touchscreen interface, adjustable laser angles, and intuitive setup tools like red-light positioning and code preview. It’s an ideal solution for manufacturers who need detailed, permanent codes on temperature-sensitive packaging materials.
SQ-LFX Fume Extraction System: Clean Air and Compliance
All laser marking systems produce fumes, particles, and potentially harmful gases during the marking process. The SQ-LFX Laser Fume Extraction System ensures your facility remains safe, compliant, and efficient.
Developed in partnership with Purex™, the SQ-LFX features advanced HEPA and carbon filtration capable of capturing 99.997% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. It also includes gas and particle sensors, an informative graphic display, and adjustable airflow to suit different production conditions.
Automatic electronic flow control maintains consistent extraction, even as filters begin to fill, while patented Labyrinth pre-filters extend the lifespan of the main filter. The system is quiet, compact, and easy to install—making it an essential companion to every Squid Ink laser system.
How to Choose the Right Laser for Your Operation
| Laser Model | Best For | Highlights |
| SQ-10 (CO₂) | General packaging | Cost-effective, compact, minimal maintenance |
| SQ310-C-A / SQ610-C-A (CO₂) | High-speed lines | PET bottle marking, multiple power levels, robust build |
| SQ-F-A (Fiber) | Metal and industrial | Permanent metal marking, zero consumables, high-contrast results |
| SQ-UV-A (UV) | Sensitive plastics | Low-heat operation, high-contrast on soft materials |
| SQ-LFX | All environments | Essential air filtration, safety compliance, long filter life |
Conclusion
Choosing the right laser coder depends on your material, industry, speed requirements, and production environment. Whether you’re printing on cardboard at moderate speeds or marking serialized codes on metal at high speeds, Squid Ink offers a tailored solution to meet your goals.
Our CO₂, fiber, and UV laser systems provide powerful, flexible, and low-maintenance alternatives to traditional inkjet coders. When paired with the SQ-LFX fume extraction system, you get a complete, turnkey laser marking solution that protects your people, products, and processes.
To learn more or request a product demo, contact Squid Ink today.
