Laser Marking for Military and Police Units
Defence and police units mark equipment for tracking and make awards, plaques and ID in-house. We help match the laser to the parts you mark.
Trusted by military and police customers across Canada
- RCMP
- Department of National Defence (Canadian Armed Forces)
- CFB Gagetown
- CFB Edmonton
- CFB Esquimalt
- Fort Saskatchewan Correctional Centre
- Calian Ltd.
- Toronto Police Service
- CTC Tactics School
- DND Richmond - The Sherman Armoury
- BFC Valcartier
- Galvion Inc.
- General Dynamics Valleyfield
- CFB Cold Lake
- Royal Military College Saint-Jean
- Vancouver Police Department
How units use lasers
Units typically use lasers for two kinds of work. The first is identification: serial numbers, asset tags and Data Matrix codes on tools, equipment and cases. The second is recognition: plaques, awards and memorial pieces for unit events.
Identification marking is usually on metal, so it needs a fiber laser. Awards are often wood, acrylic, glass or anodized aluminum, which a CO₂ laser handles. Many units end up with one of each, or a dual-source machine.
Typical jobs
- Serial numbers and Data Matrix codes on equipment
- Asset tags for tools, cases and vehicles
- Unit plaques, awards and retirement gifts
- Engraved glass and crystal presentation pieces
- Name tags and ID plates
- Kit and storage labelling
Materials that work
- Steel, aluminum and titanium
Fiber laser for direct, permanent marks.
- Anodized aluminum
Plates and tags on either laser type.
- Wood, acrylic and glass
Awards and plaques on a CO₂ laser.
Not sure about a material? Check the laser-safe materials guide.
Setups we usually recommend
- 1
Equipment marking
A Fusion Galvo G100 or a Tykma marking system for fast marking of metal parts.
- 2
Awards and plaques
A Fusion Pro 24 or 36 CO₂ laser.
- 3
Both on one machine
A Fusion Pro with a dual source (CO₂ plus fiber).
If a contract specifies UID marking
Standards such as MIL-STD-130 cover the content and quality of the mark, and Data Matrix codes have to be verified and graded with a barcode verifier. A laser makes the mark; verification is a separate step. Check your contract's requirements before you buy.
Equipment and materials
Fiber, MOPA and UV marking systems for metal and plastic parts.
View Tykma
Fusion Pro for awards and mixed work; Fusion Galvo G100 for fast metal marking.
View Epilog
Two-ply sheet for name plates, desk plates and labels.
View RowmarkQuestions we get asked
Fiber or CO₂ for marking equipment?
Fiber, for bare metal. CO₂ marks anodized aluminum and most non-metals, and suits awards and plaques.
Can a laser make Data Matrix codes?
Yes. If a contract requires a graded code, plan for a barcode verifier as well. The laser alone doesn't certify the mark.
Do you work with government purchasing?
Yes. We quote to tenders, standing offers and purchase orders.
Marking equipment or making awards in-house?
Tell us what you mark and what it's made of. We'll recommend fiber, CO₂ or both.