When it comes to etching and engraving, they may seem similar to each other, but the two terms are actually quite easily confused. Though they have the same aspect of design and jobs, etching and engraving are very contrast, as well as comparable. The main contrast aspect of the two is that etching is a chemical process of cutting into hard surfaces, primarily metal, whereas engraving is a physical process of cutting into a hard surface. Both techniques are still used to meet the same goal and are both a part of laser technology, but their final outcomes can turn different than expected. The concept is will always be cutting into materials to create crevices with lasers.
When engraving, the depth of the engravement is more than what it would be for an etch. The depth of an engravement can vary from .02″ to .125″ depending on the material that is being engraved. Engraving is often a quick process, the material being engraved is under a highly heated laser that vaporizes whatever material need. When a material is engraved, the eye can notice it along with the touching of the crevice created during the process. Engraving a material one time may not always be enough, so it is possible to engrave the material multiple time in the already created crevice as engraving can keep the material durable.
Etching in the other hand is just way of engraving, but done so chemically. Etching with a laser is very similar to engraving with a laser, but the heat when etching causes the material to melt off of the surface. As mentioned, the depth of engraving and etching differ, whereas the depth of etching is usually no deeper than .001 so it is easier to use on much thinner materials. Being that the depth of etching is much smaller, it is much more reliable when it comes to working with a precise project. Just like engraving, etching can also be used on various materials. It is also researched that etching can be more cost efficient and less expensive due to less material used in the process.
In conclusion, we know that the process and idea of engraving and etching is still to cut lines into materials but within a different process. Both techniques use lasers and will always be confused until informed of some sort of difference between the two to help you remember what engraved vs etched is.