Engraving Painted Tumblers and Powder-Coated Metal
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Tumblers and powder-coated items are hugely popular laser products. The laser removes the coating to reveal the bare metal underneath.
How It Works
The Ray5's 450nm laser absorbs in the pigment of paint and powder coat. The heat vaporizes the coating cleanly, leaving bright bare metal in engraved areas.
Compatible Items
- Stainless steel tumblers (Stanley, YETI, etc.) — most popular
- Powder-coated aluminum — signage, cups, brackets
- Anodized aluminum — see separate guide
- Painted steel — works but surface prep matters
Not compatible: bare stainless, bare aluminum (no coating to remove)
The Rotary Attachment Challenge
Tumblers are cylindrical — flat laser beds can't engrave them without distortion. Options:
- Rotary axis attachment — spins the tumbler while laser moves in X. Most accurate.
- Tumbler engraving without rotary: wrap the design around the tumbler and accept slight distortion on sides.
Settings (Rotary Required for Full Wrap)
For flat single-side engrave without rotary:
| Speed | Power | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 mm/min | 70% | Standard removal |
| 1500 mm/min | 80% | Deeper, brighter bare metal |
Flat Powder-Coated Items
For flat plates, panels, and signs:
- Speed: 2500 mm/min, Power: 60–70%
- Consistent results, no rotary needed
Post-Engraving
- Wipe with IPA to remove residue
- The bare metal area is susceptible to tarnishing or rust on steel
- Apply a thin clear coat or Mod Podge over engraved areas to seal
- Do NOT use a dishwasher on engraved tumblers — degrades the coating over time
Common Issues
| Issue | Fix |
|---|---|
| Coating not fully removed | Increase power or slow down |
| Marks on surrounding area (smoke) | Use masking tape around the design, remove after |
| Ghosting at edges | Overscan setting in LightBurn — increase to 2–5% |