Our tests
Slate & Chalkboard Tests
These test plates show various engraving attempts on slate and chalkboards using different laser powers and speeds.
The following was tested:
- how much contrast and engraving depth change
- which settings produce clean results
- how materials react to heat
- when engravings become lighter or darker
- how finely lines and details can be represented
As can be clearly seen, even small adjustments to the settings massively change the result.
Just a few percent more power or small changes in speed can:
- change the contrast
- deepen engravings
- damage surfaces
- burn materials
- or completely alter details
This is precisely why BWD creates real test plates for various materials and applications.
These tests serve as a basis for:
- future customer projects
- material optimizations
- photo engravings
- signage
- slate plates
- chalkboards
- and individual custom designs
Because high-quality results are not achieved by chance, but through precisely coordinated settings and continuous development.
Aluminum Tests & Protective Coatings
For this test series, various types of aluminum, surfaces, and protective coatings were examined.
Among other things, the following were tested:
- different aluminum coatings
- clear coats
- matte and glossy sealants
- food-safe protective coatings
- special coatings from the toy industry for children's products
The goal of these tests was to develop a safe and durable surface for daily outdoor use.
Particular attention was paid to:
- protection against discoloration
- moisture resistance
- durability with daily use
- resistance to scratches and friction
- safe materials in contact with saliva and skin
Especially with dog tags, the daily stress is high.
Therefore, we test various combinations of engraving, material, and protective layer to achieve long-term reliable results.
Not every surface reacts the same.
This is precisely why BWD tests materials under realistic conditions before they become finished products.
Faux Leather – Embossing & Engraving Tests
In this test series, various engraving and embossing settings were tested on faux leather.
The aim was to find out:
- when a clean embossing is achieved
- when the surface becomes a visible engraving
- how different depths behave
- at what point the material burns or is damaged
Especially with faux leather, materials react very differently to heat and laser power.
Even small changes in speed or strength visibly alter the result.
Among other things, the following were tested:
- light and dark engravings
- fine lines
- photo engravings
- various depths
- contrast behavior
- surface structure
- material reaction to high heat
Particularly important was the balance between:
clean optics, good readability, and material-friendly processing.
Because high-quality results are not achieved simply through strong engravings, but through controlled precision.
Wood, Slate & Photo Engraving Tests
This test series shows various woodcuts, engravings, drillings, and milling attempts using laser processing.
Among other things, the following were tested:
- different engraving depths
- woodcuts
- drilling in slate
- milling and cutting attempts
- combinations of engraving and material processing
- integration of shapes and symbols into natural materials
A key focus of this test was whether a heart stone could be cleanly and visually appropriately integrated into a slate slab.
In addition, various photo engravings with mediocre to poor image quality were tested to better assess the limits and possibilities of engraving.
This clearly showed that:
the better the image quality, the higher the quality of the subsequent engraving result.
For optimal results, we recommend:
- PNG files
- SVG files
- high resolution
- images that are as sharp and high-contrast as possible
- ideally at least 1000 × 1000 pixels
Especially for photo engravings, the quality of the original image determines the level of detail, contrast, and sharpness of the final engraving.
Chalkboard, Foil & Signage Tests
This test series shows various attempts with foils, plotter technology, and engravings on different chalkboards and signage materials.
It quickly became clear that:
not all chalkboards are created equal.
Different surfaces react completely differently to:
- heat
- engraving
- adhesive foils
- plotter technology
- lacquers
- contrast
- cleaning and wear
Among other things, the following were tested:
- various types of foils
- matte and glossy surfaces
- different adhesive strengths
- engraving on coated boards
- combinations of foil and laser
- contrast and readability tests
- various chalkboard materials
Particularly important was the question:
Which combination provides the best readability and durability in everyday use?
Especially in gastronomy, hotels, or outdoor areas, signage must be:
- easy to read
- robust
- easy to clean
- and aesthetically high-quality.
Therefore, we test various materials and processing techniques under realistic conditions before they become final products.
Aluminum Engravings & Material Tests
In this test series, various aluminum cards, colors, and engraving settings were tested.
The aim was to better understand the material's behavior under different laser powers.
Among other things, the following questions were examined:
- When does the material start to melt?
- When does aluminum deform due to heat?
- How does the colored coating react?
- What does the layer beneath the color look like?
- How much does the contrast change?
- Which settings produce clean engravings?
- How finely can details be represented?
Especially with anodized aluminum, colors and coatings react very differently.
Some surfaces produce bright engravings, others darker or matte effects.
Additionally, the following was tested:
- how deep it is possible to engrave
- how heat affects the card's shape
- how stable the surface remains
- how finely lines and logos can be rendered
Because high-quality results are only achieved when material, laser power, and speed are precisely matched.
Every aluminum surface behaves differently.
That's why we test various combinations before they become final products.