Glass - Flat
Overview
Float glass and sheet glass. CO2 lasers can engrave and mark glass by creating micro-fractures in the surface. Diode lasers require marking spray on glass. Always sandblast or use a buffer layer to prevent shattering.
Properties
Difficulty
intermediate
Pros
- Permanent elegant engravings
- Beautiful frosted effect
- Professional appearance
- Waterproof
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Cannot cut glass with standard lasers
- Requires marking compound for best results
- Can crack from thermal shock
- Reflective surface hazards
- Special safety considerations
Best For
- Wine glasses
- awards
- window art
- mirrors (careful)
- keepsake photo frames
Avoid For
- Tempered glass (shatters immediately from thermal shock)
- cutting glass (not possible at these wattages)
Laser Compatibility
Flat glass engraves to frosted finish (subsurface fracture). CO2: 300mm/s 15-25W. Diode: limited effect. Apply damp newspaper or dish soap for better results. Cannot cut flat glass with laser — score and snap only.
Brands
Generic float glasspicture frame glass