BARCODING AND LABELLING F
ume extraction systems help filter these laser-generated airborne contaminants (LGACs) from processes, protect valuable equipment, maintain high-quality standards and reduce production downtime, all within the scope of
workplace regulations. Extraction systems that filter fume and
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from serialisation and component marking help preserve legibility. Extraction systems keep laser lenses free from dust that could otherwise degrade the coding or markings, minimising unnecessary downtime. Examples include food and beverage packaging and the high-speed marking of expiry dates and lot codes on pharmaceutical packaging. Extraction systems are important here to prevent the ‘ghosting’ of text caused by smoke interference, helping to maintain the required scannability for regulatory compliance. To implement an appropriate filtration
strategy, it is vital to understand the size and chemical profile of emissions. Also, understanding the impact of momentum on the ability of particulates to travel beyond the point of ablation requires detailed airflow analysis, and a refinement of system architecture and control systems. When considering the use of lasers or the
introduction of new laser technology, it is advisable to engage an industrial filtration engineer at an early stage because of the many dynamics at play in filtration and extraction performance. The engineer can then conduct a detailed assessment of the process and materials being worked and recommend the precise extraction system design to create optimal conditions for laser performance and help return clean air to the workplace. It’s not just fumes and dust that must be
considered. As fibre lasers operate at high speeds, the process sometimes generates higher temperatures than other types of laser systems, while also generating very small particles. If these are not properly controlled, particles can collect around the laser head, as well as the ducting and filters, and can be highly flammable. So, extraction systems should be maintained to keep the area around the laser free from airborne contaminants to reduce the risk of an ignition source coming into contact with flammable material before it burns out. The inclusion of a spark reduction system
can help reduce fire risks in laser processes. These are designed to prevent potential ignition sources from entering the fume extraction system by intercepting them. For example, if the temperature sensor inside the spark reduction system detects a 10°C rise above the ambient temperature, it will sound an alarm and cut power to the extraction system. The latest generation of extraction systems
are also powered by intelligent monitoring platforms. Systems now allow for two-way, real-time data streams that integrate with a factory’s local area network (LAN). This provides operators with data on a high-
FUME EXTRACTION FOR LASER CODING AND LABELLING
By Richard Heard, Senior Manager, Donaldson
Lasers have transformed the coding of products and packaging. However, all laser coding processes produce fume emissions at the point of ablation, some invisible to the human eye
contrast display, giving remote visibility of extraction performance, such as airflow rates and independent status for each filter stage. This data can be downloaded via USB for analytical evaluation, supporting predictive maintenance initiatives and helping to prevent unplanned downtime, enabling fully automated manufacturing control. To help ensure the extraction system is
optimised for the specific laser process, manufacturers should consider: 1. Emission profiling – understanding the specific pollutants (e.g., formaldehyde, acrolein or metallic nanoparticles) generated by the substrate.
2. Airflow analysis – using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) sensors to monitor exhaust air. These sensors alert operators if chemical breakthrough occurs, to help make sure the carbon filter is replaced exactly when needed.
By combining these physical safety
measures with digital monitoring, operators can configure the extraction system to operate only when the laser is active, which can help reduce energy costs and further mitigate risk. Automation enables the integration of multiple complementary systems to create
14 JUNE 2026 | FACTORY&HANDLINGSOLUTIONS
one holistic solution. The focus on coding speed results from the convergence of laser technology and process automation. Effective fume extraction is part of that architecture and must be capable of capturing particulates at the point of laser ablation. With faster processing comes a requirement for technical innovation and greater filter capacity to capture airborne contaminants. This is critical not just from a workplace environment perspective, but in helping to prevent fumes or dust from travelling beyond the process area and contaminating products, potentially causing process downtime.
Donaldson
www.donaldsonbofa.com
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