How to Laser Engrave Curved Surfaces: A Complete Guide with ComMarker

ngraving on flat materials like metal tags, wood boards, or acrylic sheets is straightforward. But when it comes to curved surfaces—like rings, cups, pipes, or wine bottles—things get a little more complex. The good news? With the right tools and techniques, you can laser engrave cylindrical or curved objects with precision and confidence.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about laser engraving curved surfaces, from rotary tools to material alignment, plus a deep dive into how ComMarker fiber and UV laser systems make it easier than ever.

Why Curved Surface Engraving Matters

Whether you’re personalizing a wedding ring, branding a stainless steel tumbler, or serializing aerospace parts, curved surfaces are everywhere. Customers increasingly expect custom, high-quality marks—regardless of surface shape.

Common curved items that benefit from laser engraving:

Jewelry (rings, bangles)
Drinkware (wine bottles, flasks, tumblers)
Cylindrical metal parts (pipes, fittings)
Promotional items (pens, flashlights)
Medical devices and tools

The Problem with Curves: Focus and Distortion

Laser engraving relies on maintaining a fixed focal distance between the laser head and the material surface. On a flat surface, this is easy. On a curved surface, however:

The focus point constantly shifts as the curve rises and falls.
Laser beam distortion can occur, especially on steep curves.
Text and graphics can warp, if not properly mapped to the surface geometry.

That’s why specialized techniques and tools—like rotary attachments—are key.

The Solution: Use a Rotary Axis Attachment

To handle cylindrical or rounded items, the most effective method is to use a rotary axis (or rotary chuck). This accessory rotates the object as the laser fires, keeping the beam at a consistent focus point across the entire circumference.

✅ Compatible with ComMarker Machines:

All ComMarker fiber and UV laser engravers, including the Omni 1 UV and Titan 1 JPT MOPA, support rotary axis attachments. They’re plug-and-play with EZCad2 or LightBurn.

Types of rotary attachments:

Roller Rotary: Ideal for cups, tumblers, bottles, and tubes.
Chuck Rotary: Perfect for rings, small cylinders, or conical objects.
Jaw Rotaries: Best for complex or heavy cylindrical parts.

Step-by-Step: How to Laser Engrave Curved Surfaces with ComMarker

1. Prepare Your Laser Engraver

Install your rotary axis and connect it to the appropriate control port.
Select a lens size that fits your material (e.g., 110×110mm for tight precision).
Use LightBurn or EZCad2 to switch to rotary mode in settings.

2. Secure the Material

Use clamps, jaws, or friction rollers to stabilize the object. Ensure it rotates smoothly.
For rings, align the inside of the ring perfectly within the focal plane.
For cups or bottles, level the object to prevent wobble during rotation.

3. Focus the Laser

Use auto-focus (ComMarker Omni 1) or manually measure and adjust using the electric Z-axis.
Some ComMarker models offer dual red-light focus pointers to help visualize the beam convergence point.

4. Configure Laser Parameters

This varies based on material and design complexity. Example settings for stainless steel:

Setting	Fiber Laser (Titan 1 – 30W)	UV Laser (Omni 1 – 10W)
Power	80–100%	50–70%
Speed	200–500 mm/s	100–200 mm/s
Frequency	20–60 kHz	20–40 kHz
Line Interval	0.02–0.05 mm	0.03–0.05 mm
Passes	1–3	2–4

✅ Use cross-hatching for high-density artwork.
✅ Enable “Enable Rotary” in LightBurn or EZCad to properly unwrap designs onto the curve.

5. Run a Dry Test

Before engraving:

Use the “frame” or “simulate” option to check pathing.
Perform a low-power dry run (no beam) to detect misalignment or slip.

6. Start Engraving

Click “Start” and monitor the process. Ensure the object rotates consistently, and the laser remains in focus.

7. Post-Processing

Wipe down with isopropyl alcohol or mild cleaner to remove debris.
For metal: consider applying a protective coating (e.g., rust inhibitor).
For glass: use Rust-Oleum white paint prep, then clean with thinner.

Tips for Engraving Specific Curved Materials

Glass Tumblers

Use UV laser (Omni 1) for clean, cold marking with no cracking.
Spray surface with white matte paint for better contrast.
Set speed: 200–300 mm/s, power: 30–40%, frequency: 30 kHz.

Metal Rings

Use fiber laser (Titan 1 or B6) with chuck rotary.
Choose a high Q-pulse width (e.g., 200–400ns) for smoother marks.
Rotate slowly: ~30–50 mm/s.

Wine Bottles

Rotate via roller rotary.
Enable split marking with overlap: 0.1mm, split height: 1–3mm.
Test for center point and start at the logo height.

Why Choose ComMarker for Curved Surface Engraving?

🔵 Omni 1 UV Laser Engraver

Cold-engraving safe for heat-sensitive materials
Auto-focus & Class 1 safety enclosure
Perfect for detailed artwork on glass, plastics, and ceramics

🟠 Titan 1 MOPA Fiber Laser Engraver

Ideal for metal and industrial parts
JPT MOPA source for color marking on stainless steel
Modular lens and rotary support out of the box

ComMarker provides all the essential tools, including rotary kits, software support, and detailed tutorials, to help you get up and running on curved engraving—fast.