The Dot Peen Marking Process:

Dot Peen Marking uses a computer-controlled stylus to indent the metal surface with a series of dots, forming characters, logos, or traceability codes. Key steps include:

1. Material Preparation:

• Components such as bolts, screws, washers, or brackets (commonly steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or brass) are cleaned and positioned for marking.

2. Tooling Setup:

• The Dot Peen marking system is programmed with the desired text, symbols, or codes.

• The marking stylus is aligned to the exact location on the component.

3. Marking Operations:

• The stylus creates a series of dots on the metal surface, forming permanent marks.

• Marking types include:

  • Part Numbers & Serial Codes: Ensures traceability and inventory tracking.

  • Logos & Branding: Adds company or product identifiers directly on the fastener.

  • Specifications: Marks material grade, size, or compliance information.

4. Final Processing:

• After marking, components may undergo secondary processes such as deburring, coating, or inspection to meet quality standards.

Enhancements in Dot Peen Technology:

CNC Integration: Automated positioning allows precise placement on small or irregular components.

High-Speed Marking: Modern systems achieve faster cycle times for large production runs.

Flexible Materials: Can mark a wide range of metals, including hardened or coated surfaces.

Automation: Robotic handling systems improve consistency, reduce labor, and integrate with production lines.

Advantages of Dot Peen Marking:

Permanent Identification: Marks are durable and resistant to wear, corrosion, and heat.

Precision & Clarity: High-resolution marking ensures legible, repeatable results.

Versatility: Can mark flat, curved, or irregular surfaces without additional tooling.

Cost Efficiency: Eliminates the need for custom dies for each mark, reducing setup costs.

Traceability & Compliance: Supports industry standards for part identification and quality control.

Applications in Engineered Fasteners:

Dot Peen Marking is widely used for marking critical components where traceability, compliance, and branding are essential. Applications include:

Flat Fasteners: Washers, clips, and retaining rings marked with part numbers or logos.

Threaded Fasteners: Bolts, screws, and studs marked before or after threading for identification.

Custom Components: Brackets, flanges, or assemblies requiring specification or serial numbers.

Traceability Marks: Batch numbers, heat codes, or certification information for quality assurance.

Structural Components: Reinforcements and subassemblies marked for installation or inspection purposes.

Limitations

Surface Depth Restrictions: Extremely thin or soft materials may not retain deep marks.

Speed vs. Complexity: Highly detailed marks may require slower marking speeds.