In the precision world of laser marking and engraving, speed and accuracy are everything. At the heart of high-performance systems lies the scan head, a core component that drives galvo laser technology. Whether you’re working with fiber, CO₂, or UV lasers, understanding how galvo scanning works—and how to choose the right system—can make all the difference in your production quality and efficiency.
What is a Scan Head in Laser Systems?
A scan head is a compact optical and electromechanical assembly that controls the position and direction of the laser beam. It usually contains:
- X and Y-axis galvanometer mirrors (galvos)
- High-precision optical components
- Feedback sensors for real-time correction
- Heat dissipation systems to ensure stability
These galvos rotate mirrors rapidly and precisely, guiding the laser beam to the desired marking location without moving the workpiece—this is the principle of galvo scanning.
How Galvo Laser Systems Work
Galvo laser systems differ from traditional flatbed laser engravers by using electromagnetic-driven mirrors instead of moving the laser head mechanically. The key advantages include:
- High-speed marking — ideal for batch production
- Non-contact operation — reduces wear and tear
- Compact working area — perfect for small, precise components
- 3D scanning potential — especially with dynamic focus modules
This technology is widely used in metal marking, electronic chip coding, QR code engraving, and medical device labeling.
Choosing the Right Scan Head for Galvo Scanning
When selecting a scan head, you should consider:
- Aperture size: 10mm to 20mm apertures are common; larger allows for more power or wider marking field
- Scan speed: Measured in mm/s or characters per second—faster speeds reduce cycle time
- Mirror coating: Should match your laser wavelength (e.g., 1064nm for fiber, 355nm for UV)
- Control interface: Compatible with control boards like BJJCZ, and software such as EZCAD
Top-tier galvo laser scan heads also support 3-axis dynamic focusing for marking curved or stepped surfaces.
Applications of Galvo Scanning Technology
- Electronics and semiconductor: Chip codes, circuit boards
- Jewelry and engraving: Fine detail on rings, bracelets
- Medical industry: Surgical tool markings, serials
- Automotive parts: High-speed batch coding on metal surfaces
- Plastics and packaging: Date codes, barcodes, logos
With the correct scan head, galvo laser machines deliver unmatched repeatability and sharpness even in long production runs.
FAQ: Galvo Scanning & Scan Head Technology
Q1: What is the main advantage of galvo scanning over traditional gantry systems?
Galvo scanning offers significantly higher speed and precision, making it ideal for small to mid-sized parts that require detailed markings.
Q2: Can I use the same scan head for different laser types?
Not always. The mirrors and coatings must match the laser wavelength. For example, fiber lasers need different coatings than UV lasers.
Q3: What is a 3D galvo scanner?
A 3D galvo scan head uses an additional Z-axis actuator to dynamically adjust the focal length, allowing marking on curved or uneven surfaces.
Q4: How long does a scan head last?
With proper cooling and usage, high-quality scan heads can last over 20,000–30,000 hours.
Q5: Is galvo scanning suitable for cutting applications?
It depends. While galvo is mainly used for marking, it can cut thin materials at low depth and high speed. For deep cutting, flatbed systems are preferred.
