Engraving Painted Tumblers and Powder-Coated Metal

Engraving Painted Tumblers and Powder-Coated Metal on the Ray5 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: 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

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