Handheld electric dot peen machines are widely used for engraving serial numbers, barcodes, logos, and other markings on metal surfaces. One of the key factors influencing marking quality is pulse frequency, which directly impacts marking depth, speed, and clarity. In this blog, we’ll explore how adjusting pulse frequency affects marking depth and what settings work best for different applications.

Understanding Pulse Frequency in Dot Peen Marking

Pulse frequency refers to the number of electrical pulses per second (Hz) delivered to the marking pin. A higher frequency means more impacts in a given time, while a lower frequency results in fewer, more spaced-out impacts.

How Pulse Frequency Influences Marking Depth

Higher Frequency = Shallower Marks

When the pulse frequency is high (e.g., 200-300 Hz), the marking pin strikes the surface rapidly, creating many closely spaced dots.

Since each impact has less time to penetrate deeply, the overall marking depth tends to be shallower.

Best for: Fine markings, thin materials, or applications requiring high-speed engraving.

Lower Frequency = Deeper Marks

A lower frequency (e.g., 50-100 Hz) allows more energy per impact, as the pin strikes with greater force and dwell time.

This results in deeper, more pronounced dots, improving durability on hard metals.

Best for: Heavy-duty industrial markings, rough surfaces, or when permanence is critical.

Balancing Speed and Depth

While lower frequencies produce deeper marks, they also slow down the marking process. Conversely, high-frequency marking is faster but may not be suitable for deep engravings. The optimal setting depends on:

Material hardness (softer metals allow deeper marks at higher frequencies)

Desired marking speed (production lines may favor higher frequencies)

Required durability (deep marks resist wear better)

Practical Tips for Adjusting Pulse Frequency

Test on Scrap Material – Always run test marks to fine-tune frequency settings before full production.

Adjust Based on Material – Harder metals (e.g., steel) may need lower frequencies for sufficient depth, while aluminum can be marked effectively at higher frequencies.

Consider Marking Speed – If fast marking is essential, a higher frequency with moderate depth may be the best compromise.

Conclusion

Pulse frequency plays a crucial role in determining the depth and quality of dot peen markings. By understanding how frequency adjustments affect engraving results, operators can optimize settings for different materials and applications. Whether prioritizing speed or durability, the right pulse frequency ensures clear, long-lasting marks every time.