The Magnus Diamond Etching Machine is not a laser engraving system, it has been specifically
designed to etch highly detailed ornamentation direct onto headstones. Unlike laser engraving
machines the diamond etching machine does not require the stone to be level, flat or black!
 

Impact Etching is a revolutionary technology, designed for use in the memorial industry. Time tested and reliable, the image is created by a diamond tipped needle hitting the stone. The machine adjusts the strength and frequency of the impacts to generate accurate grey scale images on the granite.
The needle automatically maintains the optimal distance between the needle and the stone,
allowing processing of uneven surfaces. 

How does it compare to laser?

We believe diamond etching is a better fit for memorial etching than laser. It does not require that the granite is black and it penetrates much deeper than laser giving a much brighter finish that laser which just burns the surface of the granite. Setting up the etching machine is significantly more straight forward than a laser system. The head automatically controls the height of the diamond tip the location is easy to set using the accurate variable speed motors.

What do I need to use the machine?

You will need a computer and a way of importing photographs onto it (either direct from a camera or via a scanner). If you don't want to edit your own images then the manufacturers offer an image manipulation service to ensure your artwork is perfect for engraving. If you are editing the images yourself you will need suitable software (we recommend using GIMP2, Corel Photo Paint or Adobe Photoshop). The Magnus range of etchers are also wi-fi enabled allowing easy connection to phones, tablets or computers.

What size design can I do?

The Mag 3 is a compact portable machine that sits on top of the stone. It is capable of etching a
design 40cm x 60cm in size. The medium size free standing Mag 5 will etch designs up to 60cm x
75cm.

How long does a needle last?

On average a needle is capable of etching over 100 portraits (6”x4”). Ultimately it depends on
resolution and intensity of etching but it costs approximately 50p - £1 in tip wear per design.

How long does it take to etch an image?

It depends on the size of the image and the resolution you are etching at but expect an average
4x6” portrait to take 15-20 minutes to etch.

What support can I expect to receive?

There is a 1 year warranty on the entire machine (excluding needles). We provide comprehensive manuals and video training, email and telephone support as well as remote assistance via web connection. We set all of the machines up with our configuration settings. These settings allow you to etch onto a number of different materials with a couple of different settings. More importantly we give you all the training you need to work the machine to the best of it's capability.