Advanced Materials Processing Center

Red Header Map

The state-of-the-art Advanced Materials Processing Center (AMPC) has a goal to advance laser material processing science and develop technology innovations that address the critical needs of our customers. Through the AMPC, we apply years of knowledge and expertise in laser materials processing to support customers in their decision-making from configuration to deployment and beyond. All ULS customers benefit from the ongoing research and development of the AMPC as it remains a resource to them as their business may expand or change.

As a result of our constant research and development of laser material processing, we are able to provide customers unique products and an extensive, ever expanding Intelligent Materials Database that is integrated into our laser system control software that is available on all ULS systems.

AMPC Testing Lab

Advanced Materials Processing Center

The Intelligent Materials Database automatically calculates optimized laser material processing settings for hundreds of materials. This eliminates the need for users to develop settings through trial and error. Whether the ULS system is used as a "laser cutter", "laser engraver", "laser marker" or a combination of processes, the Intelligent Materials Database allows users to achieve professional quality results without undue effort.

The AMPC identifies compatible materials to add to the materials database based on a set of criteria and general understanding of the material characteristics and the potential use of the material. Each material goes through testing and analysis to develop a compatibility profile for laser material processing. Below are examples of the types of tests included in our comprehensive assessment before adding settings to our materials database:

  1. Heat Affected Zone (HAZ) – testing of the material to determine the smallest HAZ possible
  2. Compatible Laser Processes – testing of the material with different wavelengths and power levels to determine which processes of laser cutting, engraving and/or marking are compatible with the material
  3. Uniformity – applying the laser processes of cutting, engraving and marking across a graphic to ensure consistency of results
  4. Edge Quality Optimization – testing to determine the optimal edge quality for the material when laser cutting (ex. smooth polish on acrylic edges; no serration along edge)
  5. Change of Appearance – testing of the material to determine potentially desirable and undesirable effects on the material
  6. Material Integrity – testing of the material to determine whether the integrity of the material is impacted by a laser process
  7. Effluent Analysis – testing of the material to identify any environmental, hazardous health or safety considerations when using the material with laser technology
To determine the type of results you can expect from laser material processing of your material(s), take the following steps:
  1. Check our materials database to see if the material has been tested.
  2. If you have specific questions about a material listed in our database or your application, contact a ULS representative. Working closely with the AMPC, the ULS representative will ensure your questions are addressed. Additionally, the AMPC may also recommend next steps to make sure you have the information you need to move forward in your decision-making process.
  3. If your material is not listed, contact us to discuss further. Materials are added to our materials database on a quarterly basis. Testing of your material may already be part of our testing schedule.
  4. If you would like to stay abreast of new materials added, visit the Materials Library