Which solutions deliver reliable datamatrix marking?
Reliable datamatrix marking on diverse materials and applications requires precision and durability, which can be achieved with laser or dot peen.
Industrial traceability demands precision, especially when product quality and regulatory compliance hang in the balance. Gravotech's equipment range spans laser markers and dot peen systems, each delivering a permanent datamatrix that endures a part's entire operational life.
Datamatrix marking compresses extensive information into small surface areas: a capability that aerospace, automotive, and medical device sectors now rely on for component identification. Compact size meets high data capacity in the datamatrix code, and its durability withstands automated production environments.
Manufacturers gain control over component tracking, inventory accuracy, logistics flows, and quality verification. How? Machine-readable 2D codes link physical parts to digital systems, enabling traceability from fabrication through field service across industrial manufacturing stages.
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Which Gravotech datamatrix marking machine for your needs?
Gravotech’s integrable laser machines and laser stations are engineered for precise Datamatrix laser marking on industrial parts, ensuring high traceability across demanding sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and medical industries.
Compared to dot-peen technology, Datamatrix laser marking offers superior precision, higher contrast, and the ability to mark on a wider variety of materials without causing surface damage. These systems deliver consistent, maintenance-free results, making them ideal for traceability and quality control.
Our Fibre, MOPA, Hybrid, and Green Lasers, along with the Mini-inline, provide seamless integration into automated production lines for fast, non-contact marking. For standalone solutions, our WeLase™, LW2, and LW3 laser stations ensure exceptional versatility, marking both small and large parts with durable codes.
Integrated laser system to mark and engrave on all metals.
FIBER Laser
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Medium fully automated laser marking station.
LW2
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Laser protection nose for integrable laser markers.
Mini-inline
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Integrated laser system for high-quality marking on metals and plastics.
MOPA Laser
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Small laser engraver for all kind of engravings.
WELASE
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Large fully automated laser workstation with Fibre, Hybrid or Green sources
LW3
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Integrated laser system for high quality marking on plastics and metals.
HYBRID laser
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Integrated laser system for high quality and cold marking on plastics and precious metals.
GREEN Laser
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Gravotech’s integrable dot-peen machines and dot-peen stations offer a robust, cost-effective solution for Datamatrix marking on industrial parts. Dot-peen technology excels in heavy-duty and harsh environments where deep, permanent marks are required.
Our XF510p, XF510m, and XF530p/m systems integrate seamlessly into production lines, delivering reliable, durable marks on metals and hard plastics. For standalone operations, the Impact station provides high-precision marking in both dot-by-dot and continuous-line modes.
These Datamatrix marking machines are built to handle various production volumes and mark both small and large parts, ensuring long-lasting traceability in industries like automotive, aerospace, and medical industries.
The fastest pneumatic dot peen marking machine.
XF510p
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The most precise and consistent electromagnetic dot peen marking machine.
XF510m
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Standalone dot peen marking station.
IMPACT
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Deep and permanent dot peen marking system.
XF530 p/m
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Rotary engraving offers a robust solution for permanently marking Datamatrix codes on industrial parts. By mechanically engraving the material, it ensures consistent depth and excellent readability, even on curved or irregular surfaces.
This technology is particularly suited for applications requiring durable identification on metal components exposed to wear, handling, or harsh environments.
IS400–IS400 Volume: Deep, precise rotary engraving for permanent Datamatrix codes on flat or cylindrical industrial parts.
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| Datamatrix codes are sometimes mistaken for QR codes, which are more familiar to the general public due to their use in advertising and mobile apps. Today, some companies use QR codes for traceability purposes, as they have similar advantages and characteristics to Datamatrix codes. However, Datamatrix codes excel in industrial contexts because they can be marked smaller while retaining high readability. Learn more about their differences in our article: 1D vs. 2D codes. |
Why use datamatrix codes in industry?
What is a Datamatrix composed of?
A Datamatrix code is a two-dimensional barcode composed of black and white cells called "modules"; arranged in a square or rectangular grid.
It includes an L-shaped finder pattern that helps scanners orient the code in any direction. Opposite of the L-shape is the clock pattern, consisting of alternating black and white modules, ensuring uniform module spacing.
Within this framework, the code contains data cells for encoding information and error correction capabilities, ECC200 being the best in terms of error correction, allowing it to remain readable even if partially damaged.
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What are the advantages of a datamatrix code?
The compact design of Datamatrix codes enables extensive data storage on small surfaces, making them ideal for parts with limited space.
Their durability ensures readability under harsh conditions, including exposure to moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
Error correction capabilities enhance data integrity and ensure that critical information remains accessible even if the code is damaged. While their compatibility with automated scanning methods streamlines production and logistics processes, increasing efficiency.
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What is usually encoded in a Datamatrix?
In industrial settings, Datamatrix codes typically encode serial numbers, batch numbers, expiration dates, and internal factory codes. They may also include brand identifiers and product specifications for traceability.
These codes are read using dedicated cameras or code readers, with the data relayed to traceability software or databases.
The content of datamatrix marking codes vary according to how the internal traceability and information management are set. Some Datamatrix codes only contain a unique serial number; while others would have the company name, and other human readable values.
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| Code validation and verification reading For the datamatrix code to be read correctly, some constraints are to be considered. When the code is marked with dot-peen or scribing technologies, proper lighting is required for the camera to read it correctly. Lighting is also useful for datamatrix laser marking, but the contrast brought by this technology makes it easier to read and validate. |
Where do datamatrix codes serve industrial markets?
What are the norms and regulations for datamatrix marking?
Datamatrix marking on industrial parts must comply with international standards to ensure consistency. The ISO/IEC 16022 standard defines the structure of a Datamatrix code for direct part marking and is thus not applicable to, for example, stickers.
Some sectors rely on specific regulations, for example GS1 Datamatrix standards are used in healthcare and retail. While in aerospace, ATA Spec 2000 ensures proper part identification and traceability.
These norms guarantee uniformity, enabling Datamatrix marking machines to create globally scannable and reliable codes that meet industry requirements.
Which main applications for datamatrix codes?
Datamatrix codes are widely adopted across various industries for both internal and external traceability of parts. These include:
- Automotive: Optimising component traceability throughout manufacturing and assembly.
- Aerospace: Tracking parts from production to maintenance for safety and compliance.
- Medical Devices: Facilitating identification and regulatory compliance in healthcare with GS1 datamatrix.
- Pharmaceuticals: Labels and surfaces to mark are usually small. Datamatrix marking prevents counterfeiting and use of expired products.
- Electronics: Managing the lifecycle of complex components.
- Food and Beverage: Enhancing traceability for quality control and safety.
- Logistics: Streamlining supply chain tracking and management.
Global ID Solutions
For key accounts and industrial leaders
You are a global industrial company looking for a trusted partner for your identification needs?
With a rich legacy of innovation and a deep understanding of industry requirements, Gravotech offers a wide range of solutions for identification requirements.
Through a collaborative approach, Gravotech works closely with its clients to understand their unique needs and challenges, allowing them to develop solutions that deliver consistent and precise results. With a global network of dedicated support professionals, Gravotech ensures that Key Accounts receive prompt assistance and ongoing technical support, maximising uptime and minimising downtime.
| FAQ: The 5 questions most frequently asked of our experts |
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🔽What is the best machine for datamatrix marking?
It depends on your priorities. Laser markers (Fibre or MOPA) are the best for speed and high-contrast re-reading, making them the preferred choice for medical and high-speed automotive lines. Dot peen machines (like the electromagnetic XF510m or the Impact) offer a better ROI for deep, durable, resistant marking on raw metals.
🔽Why is datamatrix preferred over QR codes for industrial part marking?
Mainly because of size and readability. While a QR code requires a minimum of 21x21 cells, a datamatrix marking can start at 10x10 cells. This allows for smaller marking that fits on more types of parts (like a small screw) while still encoding up to 3,116 numerical characters.
🔽Can a datamatrix code still be read if it is partially damaged or scratched?
Yes. A datamatrix code remains readable even if 20% to 30% of the code is erased or scratched. Data redundancy, within the datamatrix’s encoding algorithm, is a key reason why it is preferred for industrial parts that undergo heavy handling or wear.
🔽How to preserve readability of a marked datamatrix code?
Readability depends on the environment and the marking technology. For external parts (automotive chassis or railway tracks), harsh temperatures and abrasion can wear the mark. To preserve it, we recommend marking on protected surfaces (interior casings) or using deep dot peen marking. Laser marking is often performed on surfaces that are not exposed to harsh cleaning agents.
🔽Is it possible to mark datamatrix codes on transparent or reflective materials like glass and plastic?
Yes, it is possible using specialised laser sources. Green lasers are particularly effective for reflective or heat-sensitive materials, while CO2 lasers excel on glass and certain plastics. However, because materials react differently, we highly recommend contacting Gravotech’s experts for a marking test to guarantee the best scannable results.
