What is the difference between 2D 2.5D 3D fiber laser machine?

Fiber marking machine mainly uses a laser beam to mark the surface of the material, usually used for metal, plastic and other materials.

2D marking should be the most common plane marks, such as text, simple patterns, laser focus fixed, can only work on the same plane.

2.5D May refer to the ability to adjust the focal length at different heights, so that it can maintain a clear mark on a slightly undulating surface, or to create a different depth effect by adjusting the laser energy in the same plane, which looks layered, but is not really three-dimensional.

3D marking may involve more complex dynamic focusing, where the laser head is able to move in three-dimensional space, or the focus position is adjusted through a vibroscope system to achieve complex three-dimensional structure engraving, such as three-dimensional relief.

1. Working Principles

2D Marking

Principle:
The laser focus remains fixed on a single plane (Z-axis locked) on the workpiece surface.

The laser beam is directed via X/Y-axis galvanometer mirrors to achieve 2D planar motion.

Limited to marking on flat surfaces without depth or height adjustments.

Features:
Ideal for text, patterns, and simple QR codes on flat materials.

High-speed processing but unsuitable for curved or uneven surfaces.

 

2.5D Marking

Principle:
Adds dynamic Z-axis focusing to 2D systems.

The focal length is adjusted automatically (via lenses or galvanometer systems) to vary laser depth or height within the same plane or on slightly uneven surfaces.

Features:

Pseudo-3D effects: Creates grayscale gradients or shallow relief by adjusting laser energy and focus.

Curved surface compatibility: Maintains clear marking on gently curved or irregular surfaces (e.g., cylindrical metal parts).

3D Marking

Principle:
Uses 3D galvanometer systems or high-precision Z-axis motion platforms to enable synchronized X/Y/Z-axis movement.

The laser focus moves dynamically in 3D space for true volumetric engraving (e.g., slopes, cavities, reliefs).

Features:

True 3D processing: Directly carves complex 3D structures (e.g., molds, 3D logos).

Dynamic energy control: Software adjusts laser power and focus in real time for multi-depth engraving.

2. Hardware Configurations

2D laser with 2D galvo scanning head and EZCAD2 control card, EZCAD2.14 version software.
It can mark flat metal and some nonmetal surface , deep engraving metal and cutting some thin metals.

2.5D laser means 2D laser + motorized Z axis + EZCAD3 software.
Based on the common 2D laser, the latest 2.5D machine is composed by the motorized Z axis and EZCAD3 software, mainly used for STL
file metal mold coin relief engraving etc + All features of 2D machines.

3D laser is the most comprehensive machine, which also have the motorized Z axis and EZCAD3 control card, plus a 3D Dynamic focusscanning head , it can be used for curved surface (app 120 degree) marking without rotary, can be used for metal mold and coin relief engraving, what's more, it can be used for big format like 300*300mm metal deep engraving

2D / 2.5D laser

3D laser

3. Performance and Applications

Results: Flat, uniform markings with no depth variation. Limited to planar surfaces.

Applications: Metal/plastic tags, serial numbers on electronics, flat packaging labels.

2.5D Marking

Results: Grayscale/relief-like effects on flat surfaces.

Clear markings on slightly curved surfaces (e.g., cylinders, spheres).

Applications: Textured logos on smartphone cases, curved tool engraving, arc-shaped metal parts.

3D Marking

Results: True 3D structures (e.g., recessed text, relief engraving, molds).

Multi-angle engraving on slopes, curves, and layered surfaces.

Applications: Jewelry engraving, medical device molds, 3D automotive part identifiers.

4. Comparison Summary

Selection Guide

2D: Budget-friendly for flat-surface marking.

2.5D: Required for gentle curves or grayscale effects.

3D: Essential for intricate 3D structures (e.g.,Precision molds, artwork).

Please feel free to contact us for more machine details and customization solutions.