Serial Number and Barcode Marking on Metal
Mark sequential serial numbers, barcodes and QR codes permanently onto metal parts. A fiber laser auto-increments each code in software, so every part gets a unique, machine-readable identity at production speed.
Short answer: serial number and barcode marking uses a fiber laser to apply unique, sequential, machine-readable identification, serial numbers, 1D barcodes, Data Matrix and QR codes, directly onto metal parts. The laser software auto-increments each serial so no two parts share an identity, and the mark is permanent, which is what makes industrial traceability, asset tracking and inventory control reliable.
The everyday backbone of traceability
Not every part needs an aerospace or medical standard, but almost every manufactured part benefits from a unique identity. A serial number or barcode turns an anonymous component into a trackable one: you can tie it to a production date, a batch, a quality record, a warranty or a customer. Fiber laser marking is how that identity gets applied permanently and at speed, on the metal itself rather than a label that can be lost or swapped.
The code types, and when to use each
- Human-readable serial numbers: for parts a person reads and records; the laser auto-increments the sequence.
- 1D barcodes (Code 39, Code 128): graded to ISO/IEC 15416, for linear scanning on larger labels and plates.
- Data Matrix (2D): the densest, most damage-tolerant code, ideal on small parts; see Data Matrix code marking.
- QR codes: for parts that link to digital records or customer-facing information.
Auto-incrementing and database links
The practical power of laser serial marking is automation. The control software increments the serial for every part, so a run of a thousand parts gets a thousand unique codes with no operator intervention. The software can pull data from or push data to a traceability database, logging each mark so the part’s identity is recorded from the moment it is marked. That is what separates a real traceability system from a sticker: every code is unique, permanent and recorded.
What gets serial-marked
- Industrial components and assemblies needing unique IDs and batch codes.
- Tools and equipment for asset tracking and calibration records.
- Electronics enclosures and metal backplanes.
- Hardware, fasteners and fittings in regulated supply chains.
The right machine for serial and barcode marking
Most serial and barcode work is fast and shallow, so a 30W MOPA handles fine codes on small parts, while a 100W MOPA M7 covers production volume and larger or harder parts. The same machine does color, anneal and engrave, so you can match the mark to the part. See the metal engraving guide, the Data Matrix page and the full fiber laser range.
Frequently asked questions
Can the laser automatically number each part differently?
Yes. The control software auto-increments the serial for every part, so a run of a thousand parts gets a thousand unique codes with no operator input, and it can log each one to a traceability database.
What is the best code type for a small metal part?
A Data Matrix 2D code, because it packs the most data into the smallest space and tolerates damage well. For larger plates a 1D barcode or human-readable serial may suit; a fiber laser marks any of them.
Will a laser-marked barcode scan reliably?
Yes, when marked to grade. 1D barcodes grade to ISO/IEC 15416 and 2D codes to ISO/IEC 15415; tuned laser parameters produce consistent, high-grade codes across a whole production run.
Which machine is right for serial marking?
A 30W MOPA for fine codes on small parts, or a 100W MOPA M7 for production volume and larger or harder parts. Both auto-increment serials and mark permanently on bare metal.
