Arro-Mark developed the Mighty Marker High-Temperature line for marking tasks that occur before, during, or after exposure to extreme heat. These markers are commonly used where parts move through furnaces, heat-treat ovens, paint booths, or welding operations and still require clear, permanent identification. The intent is straightforward—maintain legibility when standard paint markers burn off, discolor, or disappear.

High-temperature marking becomes critical once parts exceed the limits of conventional inks. At elevated temperatures, pigments can carbonize, carriers can evaporate, and marks can fade or flake. Arro-Mark addresses this by using temperature-stable pigments and binders that are designed to withstand sustained heat exposure while remaining readable on metal and other industrial substrates.

Role of High-Temperature Marking in Heat-Treat Operations
Heat-treat, stress-relief, and coating operations often occur mid-process, not at the end. Part numbers, heat numbers, work-order IDs, and inspection marks must remain intact through these steps to support traceability and quality control. Losing identification at this stage introduces rework risk, sorting errors, and documentation gaps. High-temperature markers provide continuity across those process transitions.

Mighty Marker High-Temperature Performance
Arro-Mark’s high-temperature formulations are engineered to tolerate temperatures that range from several hundred degrees Fahrenheit to well over 2,000°F, depending on the specific product. Marks are designed to resist smearing, excessive oxidation, and burn-off during prolonged exposure. The markers are compatible with common industrial surfaces such as steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and castings, even when surfaces are rough or scaled.

Technical data for the High-Temperature
Mighty Marker line details temperature ratings, color stability, and recommended use conditions. These markers are typically applied at ambient temperature and then exposed to heat, where the marking chemistry cures and stabilizes rather than degrading.

PM-19HT
PM-19HT is formulated for extreme heat applications where temperatures can approach approximately 2,000°F. It is commonly used in heat-treat facilities, foundries, and forging operations where marks must survive direct furnace exposure. The ink is designed to bond to metal surfaces and remain visible after cooling.

PM-92HT
PM-92HT supports high-temperature processes up to roughly 1,800°F. It is often selected for applications involving long dwell times at elevated temperature, such as stress relieving or high-temperature coating preparation. The marker provides strong contrast on darker metal surfaces.

MM-99HT
MM-99HT is used in applications requiring durable marking through moderate to high heat cycles, typically up to about 1,600°F. It is well suited for fabrication and welding environments where parts may see repeated thermal exposure.

PM-34
PM-34 addresses lower high-temperature ranges compared to the HT-specific models but remains appropriate for environments where standard paint markers fail. It is frequently used for parts entering ovens, paint lines, or pre-heat stages where consistent readability is still required.

Shop-Floor Applications
In production environments, these markers are typically used for lot identification, orientation marks, inspection sign-offs, and temporary routing information that must survive thermal processing. The ability to mark once and carry that information through heat-intensive steps reduces handling and minimizes the need for secondary labeling or re-marking.

High-temperature Mighty Markers fit cleanly into operations where traceability and process control depend on markings staying exactly where they were placed, even after the heat is on.

For help on selecting the appropriate Arro-Mark High-Temperature Mighty Marker for specific temperature ranges and applications, contact Leading Marks for product selection support and application recommendations.

Leading Marks will be exhibiting at the NWPA NTMA Advanced Manufacturing Expo, with Laurie Barcaskey on-site to discuss current marking technologies and applications.

The booth will feature Technomark laser marking systems designed for integration into modern manufacturing environments. These systems are configured to deliver permanent, high-contrast marks while maintaining process consistency across a range of materials and part geometries.

The focus is on in-process marking. Laser systems can be implemented at the machine, within a fixture, or as part of an automated cell to eliminate secondary operations. This approach reduces handling, improves traceability, and supports repeatable part identification without interrupting production flow.

Attendees will be able to review application-specific configurations and discuss how laser marking can be applied to their existing processes. The objective is to aign marking methods with production requirements, ensuring durability, readability, and efficiency.

The NWPA NTMA Advanced Manufacturing Expo brings together regional manufacturers, suppliers, and technical specialists, providing a practical environment to evaluate equipment and identify process improvements.

Plan to visit the Leading Marks booth to meet Laurie Barcaskey and review Technomark laser marking solutions in person.

Fixed-mount scanners support automated barcode capture in production, assembly, and material-handling environments where consistency and speed are required. These scanners remain in a fixed position and read barcodes as parts or packages move through a defined scan zone. The result is continuous data capture without operator intervention.

In manufacturing environments, fixed-mount scanners are commonly used to support traceability, work-in-process tracking, and verification steps tied to PLCs, MES platforms, and ERP systems. Their function is to ensure that each part, label, or direct part mark is captured accurately as part of normal production flow.

Operational Role of Fixed-Mount Scanners
Fixed-mount scanners replace manual scanning in repeatable processes. Once mounted and configured, they operate continuously, capturing barcode data as product passes through the field of view. This approach supports stable line speeds, reduces handling variation, and improves data integrity.

Typical applications include conveyor transitions, assembly verification points, label confirmation stations, and automated inspection cells. Fixed-mount scanning is especially effective in environments where parts are small, densely packed, or moving at speeds that exceed reliable handheld operation.

Honeywell HF800, HF810, and HF811 Fixed-Mount Scanners
The HF800, HF810, and HF811 fixed-mount scanners are built on a common industrial platform and share core capabilities such as 1D and 2D barcode support, industrial housings, and standard automation interfaces. Each model is tuned for a different operating envelope based on speed, distance, and application complexity.

Mechanical and Electrical Characteristics
All three models are housed in industrial enclosures rated IP65, allowing installation in environments where dust, moisture, and general shop exposure are present. Compact form factors support mounting in confined spaces, including machine enclosures, conveyor frames, and guarded cells.

Standard communication options include Ethernet, RS-232, and RS-485, supporting direct integration with PLCs, controllers, and factory networks. Discrete I/O allows external triggering and status signaling, enabling scanners to operate as part of a coordinated automation sequence.

Performance and Scanning Capability
The HF800, HF810, and HF811 support 1D and 2D barcodes, including direct part marks such as laser-etched and dot-peened Data Matrix codes. Image capture rates up to 60 frames per second support reliable decoding on moving parts and conveyors, even when part presentation varies.

Differences between models are driven by optics and decoding performance rather than basic functionality. Model selection is typically based on scan distance, field of view, and line speed rather than barcode type.

Production and Traceability Applications
Across the product family, fixed-mount scanners are used in electronics assembly, metalworking, packaging, and general manufacturing. Applications include PCB tracking, label verification, serialization, part identification, and inspection record linkage.

Automated barcode capture supports consistent data collection across shifts and production runs, reducing dependence on manual input and supporting traceability requirements.

Integration Considerations
Successful deployment depends on mounting location, scan angle, lighting conditions, and part presentation. Environmental factors such as vibration, airborne debris, and ambient light should be evaluated during installation. Electrical integration typically involves direct connection to existing control systems and validation within the broader automation architecture.

When properly integrated, fixed-mount scanners operate as passive but critical components of the production system, supporting reliable data flow without interrupting operations.

Leading Marks supports fixed-mount scanner selection, integration guidance, and application engineering for industrial environments. Engagement typically begins with a review of production requirements to align scanner model selection with line speed, mounting constraints, and barcode type. Contact our team to review your application!

BAND-IT® identification products provide engineered visual identification components designed for consistent performance in harsh and mission-critical environments. These solutions enable clear, durable marking of cables, hoses, fluid lines, and assets across industrial, transportation, energy, and infrastructure applications.

BAND-IT’s identification products integrate stainless steel materials, robust locking mechanisms, and modular tagging systems to support traceability, inspection compliance, and asset tracking requirements in demanding field conditions.

ID Tags and Colored Bands
The identification product line includes stainless steel identification tags, preassembled colored bands, character sets, embossing systems, and accessory kits. Each product is engineered to address specific identification needs that arise during installation, maintenance, and lifecycle management of equipment and systems.

Stainless steel identification tags are flat tag plates fabricated from 304 or 316 stainless steel. These tags accept custom embossed or printed character data, enabling specification marking such as part numbers, serial numbers, inspection data, or fluid designations. Tags secure to fixtures such as cables, hoses, conduits, or supports using tie systems engineered for repeatable tension and low-profile attachment.

Preassembled bands utilizing the BAND-FAST® system are provided ready for installation with integrated clips, buckles, or seals. COLOR-IT® coating options provide colored visual cues that resist UV degradation and abrasion, improving identification visibility over time without adhesive residue or premature fade common with tape solutions.

Easy Read Characters and Carriers
Easy Read characters consist of individually manufactured stainless steel letters, numbers, and symbols sized to slide onto standard 1/4″ to 3/8″ ties. These characters integrate with carrier strips to form wrap tags when installed with stainless ties. The design facilitates rapid character assembly in restricted access locations and provides enhanced readability under limited lighting conditions.

Carriers are available in coated or uncoated configurations based on environmental exposure and mechanical requirements. Kits containing bulk character sets and carriers support inventory flexibility for field service and preventive maintenance operations.

Stainless Steel Tape Embossing System
BAND-ITs stainless steel tape embossing tools support on-site production of custom identification bands. The portable embosser functions with stainless steel tape stock to create raised character data that resists solvent, abrasion, and high temperature exposure. This system enables verification labeling in remote or field conditions where printed tags are impractical.

Application Context and Performance Criteria
Identification products from BAND-IT are designed for environments that require clear visual cues for routine inspections, regulatory compliance, or operational safety. Typical use cases include hose and fluid line identification, cable and wiring marking, valve and fixture labeling, and asset traceability in industrial plants. Products resist corrosion and maintain legibility in environments affected by moisture, temperature variation, vibration, or chemical exposure.

Materials selections and mechanical designs align with harsh duty requirements. Stainless steel substrates offer inherent resistance to oxidation and mechanical wear. Locking systems and tension tools provide dependable assembly retention even under dynamic load. COLOR-IT® coatings are engineered to minimize fading and surface degradation compared to traditional marking tapes under extended outdoor exposure.

For help selecting the right BAND-IT identification products and understanding how they fit your application, contact Leading Marks.

Honeywell’s industrial label printers are built to serve a wide range of production, logistics, and compliance environments, from compact workstations to full-scale, multi-shift operations. 

The PC-Series and PD-Series printers are commonly found in light manufacturing, shipping, and work-in-process labeling, where reliability and ease of use matter more than raw speed.

Moving up the range, the PM-Series and PX-Series are designed for higher-duty industrial applications such as distribution centers, automated production lines, and regulated manufacturing, where printers are expected to run continuously and deliver consistent print quality under load.

Across the lineup, these platforms are chosen by operations that value performance, serviceability, and long-term platform support rather than frequent model changes.

The Honeywell Print Plus promotion is designed to reduce the ownership risk that comes with industrial printing. When an eligible Honeywell printer is purchased with the corresponding Print Plus service SKU, the customer receives a two-year basic service contract, an additional year of warranty, one replacement printhead, and two platen rollers.

These are the components most likely to wear in normal production use, and having them covered upfront helps stabilize maintenance costs and minimize unplanned downtime. The result is a simpler purchasing decision and a lower total cost of ownership over the first several years of printer operation, without changing how the printer is specified or deployed.

The program will run from January 1st, 2026 to March 31st, 2026

PC45
The PC45 is designed for small to mid-volume labeling environments that need dependable performance without overbuying capacity. It’s a strong fit for light manufacturing, stockroom labeling, and shipping stations where reliability matters more than speed. The Print Plus bundle makes sense here because consumables and downtime tend to hit smaller operations harder.

PD45
The PD45 targets industrial users who want a compact footprint but still need consistent, shift-to-shift performance. It fits well in manufacturing cells, work-in-process labeling, and logistics environments that run daily but not around the clock. What distinguishes the PD45 is its balance of durability and simplicity, making it easy to standardize across multiple stations.

PD45S
The PD45S is aimed at operations that require tighter print control, scripting, or integration into automated workflows. It’s commonly used in electronics, compliance labeling, and regulated manufacturing environments. Its strength is programmability and precision, and Print Plus helps protect the higher-value components these applications depend on.

PM45
The PM45 is built for higher-duty industrial printing where uptime is critical. It’s a natural fit for manufacturing lines, distribution centers, and facilities running multiple shifts. What sets the PM45 apart is its mechanical robustness and consistency under sustained workloads, making the extra warranty and spare wear parts especially valuable.

PM65
The PM65 serves wide-label and heavy-media applications in demanding environments such as pallet labeling, drum labeling, and large logistics operations. It stands out for its ability to handle larger formats without sacrificing print quality or reliability. The Print Plus promotion helps offset the cost of maintaining larger print mechanisms over time.

PX45
The PX45 is positioned for precision-driven industrial printing where print quality, speed, and consistency are all required. It’s commonly used in manufacturing and compliance labeling where barcodes and text must remain readable at high throughput. Its distinguishing feature is tight print control at production speeds, making proactive service coverage a smart investment.

PX65
The PX65 is intended for the most demanding, high-volume industrial environments, including 24/7 operations and wide-format applications. It’s built for maximum throughput and durability, with serviceability designed into the platform. The Print Plus service contract aligns well with customers who cannot afford unplanned stoppages or delayed repairs.

​compiled & written by Bernard Martin

A Hexagon branding iron, like any branding iron, is a tool used to mark or burn a specific design, logo, or text onto various materials such as wood, leather, plastic, or metal. Here are the general steps for the proper use of a hexagon branding iron:

1. Safety Precautions:

• Before starting, ensure you are working in a well-ventilated area.
• Wear appropriate safety gear, including heat-resistant gloves and eye protection.

2. Heat the Branding Iron:

• If it's an electric branding iron, plug it in and allow it to reach the desired temperature. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for heating.
• If it's a manual branding iron, heat it in an open flame or other heat source until it becomes hot enough for the material you're working with.

3. Prepare the Material:

• Ensure the material you're branding is clean, dry, and positioned securely to prevent movement during the branding process.
• For wood or leather, consider sanding or smoothing the surface for a cleaner and more even burn.

4. Positioning:

• Carefully position the hexagon branding iron over the area where you want to apply the mark.
• Ensure that the branding iron is level and perpendicular to the material's surface for an even and clear impression.

5. Apply Pressure:

• Press the branding iron firmly onto the material, ensuring good contact between the heated surface and the material.
• Hold the branding iron steady for a few seconds to allow the design to transfer onto the material.

6. Lift Carefully:

• After applying pressure for the designated time, carefully lift the branding iron straight up to avoid smudging or distorting the mark.

7. Allow to Cool:

• Let the branded material cool before handling. The cooling time may vary depending on the material and the temperature of the branding iron.

8. Clean the Branding Iron:

• If the branding iron accumulates residue from the material, clean it periodically to maintain a clear and effective mark.

Tips:

• Experiment on scrap materials before working on your final project to determine the optimal temperature and application time.
• Consider practicing your technique to achieve the desired depth and clarity of the mark.
• Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and recommendations for the specific hexagon branding iron you are using.

Properly using a hexagon branding iron requires patience, precision, and adherence to safety guidelines. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the specific branding iron you have, as different models may have unique features or requirements.

The Honeywell PX45 is purpose-built for industrial and medical labeling applications where durability, accuracy, and integration matter most.
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Whether you're printing compliance labels in a cleanroom or tracking high-value parts on the production floor, the PX45 delivers consistent, high-resolution performance—day in, day out.

Built to Withstand Harsh Conditions
The PX45 isn’t your average desktop printer. It’s a fully metal industrial printer designed to operate 24/7 in rugged environments. From factory floors to pharmaceutical labs, the PX45 thrives in demanding applications thanks to its robust, all-metal chassis, sealed electronics, and fanless design—minimizing maintenance while maximizing uptime.

It's available with either 203, 300, or 406 dpi print resolutions, so you can match the output quality to your application—whether you need crisp barcodes, detailed graphics, or small-font data fields.

Smart Printing, Simplified
What really sets the PX45 apart is its Smart Printing capabilities powered by Honeywell’s Fingerprint and C# programming languages. That means it can run standalone applications, eliminate the need for a connected PC, and interact directly with databases, scanners, or other peripherals.
Need to update label formats on the fly? Want to connect to your ERP or MES system for dynamic content? The PX45 is flexible enough to streamline workflows, reduce errors, and improve traceability—all without adding IT headaches.

Built for Integration
From medical device tracking to automotive parts labeling, seamless integration is key. The PX45 supports multiple communication protocols out of the box, including Ethernet, USB, Serial, and optional Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It also supports standard printer command languages (ZSim2, DPL, IPL, and more), making it easy to drop into existing label environments without rewriting code or retraining staff.

You’ll also find the PX45 works seamlessly with Honeywell’s EasyLabel® software or other popular label design tools.

Ideal for Industrial and Medical Labeling
In industrial environments, the PX45 handles GHS-compliant chemical labeling, parts tracking, product serialization, and pallet labels with ease. Its rugged construction ensures consistent performance in dusty, humid, or high-vibration settings.

In medical and lab settings, it excels at printing UDI-compliant labels, specimen tags, wristbands, and asset labels. Optional internal rewinders, cutters, and label peelers make it ideal for high-mix, high-volume healthcare labeling applications that demand accuracy and speed.

Fast, Accurate, and Scalable

• Up to 12 ips (inches per second) print speed for high-throughput environments
• Optional RFID support for advanced track-and-trace functionality
• Large media and ribbon capacity reduces downtime for changeouts
• Field-installable options let you customize your setup as your needs grow

Why Choose the PX45?
If you're looking for a label printer that offers speed, precision, flexibility, and long-term reliability, the Honeywell PX45 checks all the boxes. It’s trusted by leaders in aerospace, medical device manufacturing, automotive, electronics, and beyond for a reason—it just works.

See the PX45 in ActionWant to learn how the Honeywell PX45 can fit into your operation? Contact Leading Marks to schedule a demo or request more information. We'll help you determine the best configuration to meet your unique labeling requirements.

Marking might seem like a small detail, when it comes to manufacturing—but it carries a lot of weight. Whether you're dealing with traceability, safety requirements, branding, or compliance regulations, the way you mark your parts and components matters.  If you're trying to figure out where to begin, this guide breaks down the essentials—and connects you to the tools and techniques Leading Marks can provide to get it done.

Let’s start with why marking even matters. It’s more than just sticking a name or number on something. In many cases, marking is your frontline for traceability—making sure that every part can be tracked back to its origin. This is huge for quality control, inventory, and regulatory compliance. It also plays a critical role in safety. Warning labels, for example, alert operators to hazards. And don’t forget branding: clean, consistent part marking help establish your company’s image in the field.

Depending on your needs, your marking might include part or asset numbers, serial codes, barcodes, logos, date stamps, inspection or QA marks, even simple pass/fail indicators. It really comes down to what your product requires and the industry you’re working in.  Each application has its own ideal method—and that’s where the real decision-making begins.

So how do you choose the right marking method? Start by thinking through a few practical questions.

• What’s the main goal—traceability, safety, branding, compliance?
• What’s the part made of—metal, plastic, wood?
• Is the surface flat, curved, or irregular?
• How much space do you have for marking?
• What kind of content are you putting on—text, codes, symbols?
• Will the label be exposed to heat, chemicals, moisture, or abrasion?
• How fast do you need to apply it?
• And how does it fit into your production flow—are you marking inline or at a separate station?

Another big decision is whether you need something temporary or permanent.

Temporary labels like adhesives or paint markers are fast and affordable but may not last long in harsh environments. If you need the marking to hold up to wear, weather, or chemicals, then something more permanent—like laser etching, dot-peen marking, or mechanical stamping—will be a better fit.

That brings us to some of the marking options available...

​At the end of the day, marking isn’t just about selecting the right tool--it’s about clarity, durability, and smart integration into your workflow. Whether you're printing labels for wire assemblies or laser-marking aerospace components, your marking solution should be fast, repeatable, legible, and suited to the life cycle of the part.

Want help figuring out what makes sense for your shop? Let’s talk. Leading Marks will work with you to determine the best marking method based on your materials, durability needs, production volume, and budget.

​by Bernard Martin

In metal fab, accurate and permanent part identification is not just a matter of traceability—it's a compliance requirement. Durable Mecco steel stamps, available through Leading Marks, are engineered to deliver consistent, deep impressions on a range of metals and alloys, ensuring long-lasting, legible marks even in the harshest environments.

These stamps are especially vital for facilities needing to meet API (American Petroleum Institute) specification requirements, which demand precise, durable, and standardized markings for products used in oil and gas, pipeline, and pressure vessel applications.

Engineered for Toughness and Accuracy
​Durable Mecco steel type stamps are manufactured from high-grade tool steel and heat-treated for optimal hardness. This construction ensures longevity even under repeated high-impact marking processes. Offered in standard configurations as well as custom designs, the stamps are precision-ground and engraved to produce clean character definitions in each strike.

Key features include:

• Uniform Character Height and Depth - CNC engraving ensures tight tolerances for consistent marking quality.
• Hardness Rating - Approximately 58–60 HRC, suitable for marking metals up to 38 HRC.
• Compatibility - Usable with hand stamps, roll marking machines, impact presses, and automated marking systems.
• Custom Font & Logo Options - For branding, part numbers, or compliance codes beyond standard alphanumerics.

​Durable Technologies also offers steel type sets that fit standard holders, allowing quick character changes for batch coding, part serialization, and inspection stamping.

For manufacturers serving the oil and gas sector, API 5L, 6A, and 7-1 specifications include strict guidelines for product traceability and identification. Durable Mecco steel stamps can be configured to meet these standards, offering the ability to mark:

• Heat numbers
• Material grade
• Manufacturer identification
• Inspection and certification codes

These markings must remain legible after surface treatments like painting, galvanizing, or coating—making the depth and clarity of the impression essential. Durable Mecco’s stamps are built to perform reliably in these applications, providing assurance for inspectors, auditors, and end users alike.

Supporting Fabricators Nationwide
At Leading Marks, we help fabrication shops, machine builders, and industrial OEMs integrate the right marking solution for their workflow. Whether you need hand stamps for job-site work or heavy-duty type holders for your hydraulic press, Durable Mecco offers a robust portfolio backed by decades of proven performance.

FABTECH’s coming back to Chicago this September 8–11, 2025, and if you’re in the metalworking world, it’s worth making the trip. Whether you're walking the floor to check out new gear or looking for ways to solve day-to-day shop challenges, there are two booths we think you should definitely stop by--EBS Ink-Jet Systems USA Inc. and Technomark North America.
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These are two of the key marking equipment lines we work with at Leading Marks, and they’ll be showing off their latest systems live on the floor.

Still marking parts with stencils, paint pens, or tags? It might be time to upgrade. EBS builds industrial ink-jet printersthat let you mark just about anything—metal, plastic, wood, even concrete—with speed and accuracy, whether you're on the shop floor or out in the yard.

You’ve seen us cover the EBS-260 Handjet and EBS-250 on our blog and product page. These cordless, battery-powered handheld units let you walk right up to a part, beam, pipe, or pallet and print text, barcodes, logos, or part numbers on the spot—no setup, no mess, no downtime.

But if you're looking for a fully automated solution for your production line, EBS also offers the PiCas II / EBS-1600 Large Character Industrial Inkjet Printer. It's built to handle high-speed, high-volume marking directly on products or packaging. Perfect for printing bold, legible characters on everything from steel coils and castings to cardboard and shrink wrap—without ever touching the part.
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Stop by Booth A6431 to see both systems in action. Whether you need portable flexibility or in-line automation, EBS has a solution that’ll fit right into your workflow—and free you from outdated marking methods.

If you need permanent part marking—something that holds up to heat, chemicals, or rough handling--Technomark’s got the gear to get it done right. Whether you're working with steel, aluminum, or plastics, they offer dot peen and laser marking systems built to handle tough shop environments.

We’ve featured their tools on the Leading Marks website, including the Easy Series handheld dot peen unit, which is a go-to for marking big or hard-to-handle parts right at the machine or out on the floor. No need to move heavy parts to a marking station—just bring the tool to the part.

For more precision or higher volume work, their Graphix Series laser marking system delivers crisp, high-contrast results with little to no operator intervention. Whether you’re adding part numbers, logos, barcodes, or data matrix codes, this system makes it fast and repeatable—and it’s ready to drop into your automation cell if needed.
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Their equipment is built for real-world use: rugged, reliable, and easy to program. If traceability, lot control, or spec compliance are part of your everyday, make sure to swing by Booth D37025 and see it all up close.