MLT Micro Laser Technology
Laser Excellence

Laser Perforation Technology

Laser Microperforation

Laser perforation technology represents a cutting-edge solution for creating precise perforations in a variety of materials. It is applied through a wide range of industries and applications. Depending on the size of the applied holes it is sometimes also referred to as laser micro perforation. In this article you learn the advantages, possible applications and considerations for its use from the industry leader for laser perforation machines.

What is laser perforation?

The purpose of laser perforation is to insert small-diameter holes into various materials in a controlled and precise manner. The reasons for doing this can vary widely. Common uses include creating tear-off perforations, adding visual features to paper or cardboard packaging, or incorporating easy-open features in packaging designs.

Laser perforation has become a popular method for achieving precise ventilation, especially in applications like packaging for fresh produce, cigarettes, or in the design of membranes, where controlled air flow is crucial. More details on possible applications will follow in the application section.

Laser vs. Tool Based Perforation

Laser perforation offers several key advantages over traditional mechanical perforation methods:

  • Precision and Control: Laser perforation allows for exact control over hole size, spacing, and pattern, enabling customization to specific product requirements.
  • Short Change Over Times: In production lines perforation patterns can be changed by mere adjustments of parameters without the need of changing tools.
  • Speed and Efficiency: High-speed laser systems can perforate at exceptional rates, significantly reducing production times.
  • Versatility: Capable of processing a wide array of materials, from films and foils to paper and biodegradable substrates.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: With no need for physical dies or tooling, laser perforation reduces setup times and costs associated with tool maintenance and replacement.

Applications For Laser Perforating Across Industries

Laser perforation stands out as a compelling alternative to traditional perforation methods due to its high flexibility, absence of tooling costs and changeover times, and the capability to achieve top speeds. Below are examples of applications where our machines have been successfully utilized.

 

Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) for Fresh Foods:

MAP packaging is essential for fresh produce like fruits and vegetables. Laser perforation allows for controlled ventilation within the packaging, significantly extending the shelf life of the contents.

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Easy-Opening for packaging

Easy-open features are crucial for enhancing consumer experience for a wide range of food and luxury goods manufacturers, as well as Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) providers. Laser perforation offers a flexible and precise solution for implementing these features.

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Perforation of Cigarette Paper & Cigarettes

Laser perforation ensures compliance with legal limits for modern filter cigarettes, which might not be achievable without such precise perforation. It prevents the inhalation of more harmful substances than allowed by regulations.

The perforation can be applied either during the cigarette paper manufacturing process or on the finished cigarette itself.

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Want to Explore if Your Applications Can Be Handled? - Get In Touch!

We are constantly on the lookout for new, innovative applications for our laser systems. Let's discuss your ideas and requirements!

 

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What Materials Can Be Perforated by Lasers?

Laser perforation technology is versatile and adaptable, capable of processing a wide array of materials. This includes both single-layer and laminate materials such as oriented polypropylene (OPP), polyethylene (PE), low-density polyethylene (PE-LD), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), cast polypropylene (CPP), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), and polylactic acid (PLA).

 

Additionally, paper and kraft paper are also well-suited for laser perforation. The technology's ability to achieve exceptionally high speeds makes it particularly beneficial for handling web and roll materials, which are typically processed at high velocities.

Plastics, foils, laminates

  • PMMA foil, Acrylic
  • PA, Polyamide
  • PC, Polycarbonate
  • PE, Polyethylene
  • PE/PE Laminate
  • LDPE, Low Density Polyethylen
  • HDPE, High Density Polyethylen
  • PES, Polyester
  • PET, Polyethyleneterephthalate
  • PP, Polypropylene
  • OPP, Orientierte Polypropylen Foil
  • PS, Polystyrol
  • Multilayer foils / films

Metals, metal foils, metal composites

  • AL, Aluminium
  • AL, Aluminium foil
  • CU, Copper foil
  • Precious metal general
  • Battery foil
  • Titanium film

Other materials

  • Paper
  • Banknote paper
  • Kraft paper
  • Cigarette (tipping) paper
  • Cardboard
  • Glass
  • Pouch (packaging film)

 

FAQ

The word microperforation is usually used, when the diameter of the perforation holes and their distance is very small. However, there is no common distinction between the two. As laser perforation is most commonly used for small hole sizes, the terms laser perforation and laser micro perforation(LINK) are sometimes used for the same applications.

Laser holes can be as small as 5µm on some materials. However, for production applications, especially high speed applications the hole size is usually between 60µm and 1mm.

Yes, laser perforation is highly capable of handling complex patterns. The technology offers exceptional precision and control, which allows for the creation of intricate and detailed perforation designs. The laser's ability to precisely target and modify materials enables it to execute complex patterns with high accuracy, without compromising the integrity of the material being perforated.

This capability is particularly beneficial in applications requiring not just functionality but also aesthetic appeal, such as in packaging, textiles, and various industrial and consumer products. The versatility and precision of laser perforation make it an ideal solution for projects that require detailed and complex perforation patterns.

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