Project Overview

A returning equipment manufacturer recently placed an order for 216 custom weld-on identification tags, used to permanently mark 108 pieces of equipment. Each piece of equipment required two tags, with every tag carrying a unique sequential serial number for asset identification and traceability.

This order followed an initial test run of 40 tags several weeks earlier. After successfully evaluating the first batch, the customer moved forward with a larger production order and indicated that several hundred additional units would likely be required in the future.

Project Requirements

The customer required:

• 216 sequentially numbered tags
• Custom dimensions of 1.5" x 0.5"
• 1/8" thick mild steel construction
• Deep engraved serial numbers
• Tags bundled and labeled in numerical order
• Fast turnaround to support ongoing production schedules

Because the customer notified us that purchasing approval was in progress, we were able to begin preparation before the official order was released. This allowed us to dedicate additional time to finishing operations and ensure the tags arrived production-ready.

Manufacturing Process

All tags were cut in-house from 1/8" mild steel using our fiber laser cutting system.

To improve consistency and appearance, the tags were vibratory tumbled prior to engraving. This removed mill scale from the surface and produced a clean silver finish that was ready for marking and welding.

For engraving, we designed and manufactured a custom alignment jig specifically for this project. The fixture allows every tag to be positioned identically inside the laser engraver, ensuring each serial number is perfectly centered and consistently placed throughout the entire production run.

The serial numbers were deeply engraved to remain legible even after the equipment receives paint or protective coatings.

After engraving, each tag was hand wiped with a light protective oil. This final step removes any residual engraving dust while helping protect the steel from moisture and surface oxidation prior to installation.

Packaging and Organization

Because the tags would be installed in sequential order during assembly, the customer requested that they remain organized throughout shipment.

The completed tags were bundled together in numbered groups, labeled, and packaged to make identification simple upon arrival. This eliminated sorting time for the customer's production team and allowed the tags to move directly into service.

Turnaround Time

The order was received around noon on Tuesday and shipped the following day via UPS 2nd Day Air.

From raw steel to finished, engraved, organized, and packaged tags, the customer received 216 fully customized identification tags within the same business week.

Results

• 216 custom weld-on identification tags produced
• 108 pieces of equipment labeled
• Sequential numbering completed in-house
• Deep engraving for long-term visibility beneath paint
• Custom fixture built for engraving accuracy
• Tags organized and bundled to customer specifications
• Order shipped within one business day of receipt

For manufacturers requiring durable weld-on identification tags, custom serial numbering, or repeat production runs, our in-house cutting and engraving capabilities allow us to deliver production-ready parts with fast turnaround times and consistent quality.

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