Making Your Decision: A 3-Step Framework
Still torn? Run through this quick framework:
Step 1: List your materials. If it’s mostly stainless steel and carbon steel, 20W likely suffices. If aluminum or copper appear regularly, jump to 30W minimum.
Step 2: Define your depth requirements. Surface marks only = 20W. Up to 0.2 mm = 30W. Beyond 0.3 mm = 50W.
Step 3: Calculate your daily volume. Under 3,000 parts = 20W. 3,000–10,000 = 30W. Over 10,000 with any depth = 50W.
Follow these three steps and you’ll land on the right power 90% of the time.