FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything you need to know about Gravotech engraving and marking machines, our services, leasing options, and GCC coverage.
About SOFRAY EMS
What is SOFRAY EMS?
SOFRAY EMS Trading LLC is the authorized Gravotech distributor for the GCC region (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman), based in Dubai. We supply, install, and support laser, rotary CNC, and dot peen engraving and marking solutions for industrial, luxury retail, signage, and corporate gifting applications.
Where are you located?
Our headquarters and showroom are located at Office 302, Sama Building, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. We welcome visitors by appointment for live machine demonstrations. Contact us to schedule a visit.
Which countries do you serve?
We serve all six GCC countries: United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. Our base is in Dubai, UAE, with field engineers deployed across the region for installations, training, and technical support.
Are you an official Gravotech distributor?
Yes. SOFRAY EMS Trading LLC is the authorized Gravotech distributor for the GCC region. We have held this authorization since 2018, giving us direct access to Gravotech's full product range, genuine spare parts, factory training, and technical support resources.
How long have you been operating in the GCC?
SOFRAY EMS has been operating as the authorized Gravotech distributor in the GCC since 2018. Our team brings deep expertise in engraving and marking technology, serving clients across industrial, luxury retail, signage, and corporate gifting sectors throughout the Gulf region.
Technology Explained
What is the difference between laser, rotary, and dot peen marking?
Laser marking uses a focused light beam for high-speed, non-contact marking on metals, plastics, and organic materials. Rotary engraving uses a rotating cutter for deep, permanent engraving on plaques and signage. Dot peen marking uses a hardened stylus to create permanent indented marks on metal parts for traceability and serial numbering.
What is a fiber laser and what can it mark?
A fiber laser uses a solid-state laser source with a wavelength of approximately 1064 nm, ideal for marking metals including steel, aluminum, titanium, brass, copper, and precious metals. Fiber lasers are known for their reliability, low maintenance, and ability to produce high-contrast permanent marks at high speeds. They are the most popular choice for industrial traceability and metal personalization.
What is a CO2 laser and what materials does it work on?
A CO2 laser operates at a wavelength of 10.6 micrometers, making it ideal for marking and cutting organic and non-metallic materials such as wood, leather, glass, acrylic, paper, fabric, and certain plastics. CO2 lasers are widely used in signage production, gift personalization, packaging, and fashion accessories. See our LS100 and LS900 CO2 laser systems.
What is MOPA laser technology?
MOPA (Master Oscillator Power Amplifier) is an advanced fiber laser technology that enables color marking on stainless steel and titanium by controlling pulse duration. It is used in luxury goods, medical instruments, and consumer electronics for permanent, high-contrast colored engravings. MOPA lasers offer greater flexibility than standard Q-switched fiber lasers. See our MOPA laser markers.
What is dot peen (pneumatic) marking used for?
Dot peen marking, also called pneumatic marking, uses a carbide or diamond-tipped stylus driven by compressed air to create a series of closely spaced dots forming text, serial numbers, logos, DataMatrix codes, and barcodes on metal surfaces. It is widely used in oil and gas, automotive, aerospace, and heavy manufacturing for permanent part identification and traceability that withstands harsh environments.
What is rotary CNC engraving?
Rotary CNC engraving uses a computer-controlled rotating cutter or diamond drag tool to physically remove material and create deep, tactile engravings. It is ideal for signage, nameplates, industrial labels, ADA-compliant braille signs, and applications requiring filled or painted engravings. Gravotech's IS-series and M-series machines are popular rotary engraving platforms.
What is a galvo laser marking system?
A galvo (galvanometer) laser marking system uses two high-speed mirrors to steer the laser beam across the workpiece at extremely high speeds. This technology enables rapid marking of serial numbers, barcodes, logos, and graphics on metals and plastics. Galvo systems are the standard for industrial laser marking due to their speed, precision, and integration-friendly design.
Can laser engraving be done on gold and silver?
Yes. Fiber laser engravers can mark and engrave gold, silver, platinum, and other precious metals with high precision. This is widely used in the jewelry industry for hallmarking, personalizing rings and pendants, and adding serial numbers to luxury items. Gravotech machines like the M10 Jewel and M20X Jewel are specifically designed for jewelry applications.
What is DataMatrix code marking and why is it used?
DataMatrix is a 2D barcode format that stores information in a compact square or rectangular pattern. It is widely used in aerospace (per ATA Spec 2000), automotive, medical devices (UDI compliance), and electronics for permanent part traceability. DataMatrix codes can encode serial numbers, lot numbers, and manufacturing data in a very small area, and they remain readable even when partially damaged.
What is the difference between engraving and marking?
Engraving physically removes material to create a recessed mark that can be felt by touch. Marking changes the surface appearance without significant material removal — for example, by annealing, oxidizing, or color-changing the surface. Engraving is typically deeper and more durable, while marking is faster and suitable for applications where surface integrity must be preserved.
Can laser machines cut as well as engrave?
Yes, certain laser machines can both cut and engrave. CO2 lasers like the Gravotech LS100 and LS900 can cut through materials such as acrylic, wood, leather, fabric, and thin plastics while also performing surface engraving. Fiber lasers are primarily used for marking and engraving metals but can cut thin metal sheets at lower speeds. The machine selection depends on your material and thickness requirements.
What is green laser marking and when is it needed?
Green laser marking uses a 532 nm wavelength laser, which is ideal for materials that are highly reflective or transparent to standard fiber laser wavelengths. Green lasers excel at marking certain plastics, silicon wafers, glass, and sensitive electronic components. They are commonly used in semiconductor manufacturing, medical device production, and solar panel fabrication.
Choosing the Right Machine
How do I choose between a laser and a rotary engraver?
Choose a laser engraver when you need high-speed, non-contact marking on metals, plastics, or organic materials — especially for serialization, barcodes, and fine detail work. Choose a rotary engraver when you need deep, tactile engravings on signage, nameplates, or when you need to engrave into thick materials where a physical cut is required. Our team can assess your application and recommend the best technology. Contact us for guidance.
Which machine is best for jewelry engraving?
For jewelry engraving, we recommend the Gravotech M10 Jewel for small workshops and boutiques, and the M20X Jewel for higher-volume production. Both feature fiber laser sources optimized for precious metals, with specialized fixtures for rings, bracelets, and pendants. They offer micron-level precision for hallmarking, personalization, and decorative engraving on gold, silver, platinum, and titanium.
Which machine is best for industrial part traceability?
For industrial part traceability, fiber laser marking systems and dot peen markers are the primary solutions. Fiber lasers are ideal for high-speed, permanent marking of serial numbers, DataMatrix codes, and logos on metal and plastic parts. Dot peen markers are preferred for harsh environments (oil and gas, heavy manufacturing) where deep, indented marks are needed that survive extreme conditions. Contact us to discuss your specific traceability requirements.
Which machine is best for signage production?
For signage production, the Gravotech IS400 is a large-format rotary engraver ideal for ADA-compliant braille signs and architectural signage. The LS100 CO2 laser is excellent for cutting and engraving acrylic, wood, and laminate signs. The M40 offers high-throughput engraving for medium-format signage. The best choice depends on your sign materials, sizes, and production volume.
What is the best machine for in-store retail personalization?
For in-store retail personalization, the Gravotech M20 is a compact, quiet, and user-friendly laser engraver designed for boutique environments. The LS100 CO2 laser is ideal for personalizing leather goods, perfume bottles, and gift items. Both machines feature intuitive software and a small footprint suitable for retail floor placement. They are popular in luxury boutiques across Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha.
Can I mark on curved surfaces?
Yes. Gravotech offers rotary attachments and fixtures for marking on cylindrical and curved surfaces such as rings, bottles, tubes, and shafts. For laser systems, 3D laser marking heads can adjust focus dynamically to mark on curved, angled, or irregular surfaces. Our team can recommend the right configuration for your specific workpiece geometry.
What is the smallest workable engraving area?
Gravotech laser systems can engrave areas as small as a few square millimeters with micron-level precision. Fiber lasers with galvo scanning heads can produce text as small as 0.1 mm character height on metals. The minimum area depends on the marking technology, material, and content requirements. Contact us with your specifications for a detailed recommendation.
What software do Gravotech machines use?
Gravotech machines use proprietary software tailored to each technology. Gravostyle is the main software for rotary engravers, offering design, layout, and production control features. LaserTrace is used for industrial laser marking with barcode and traceability workflows. GravoTouch is a simplified touchscreen interface for retail personalization applications. All software supports import of common file formats (DXF, AI, BMP) and database connectivity.
Do I need special ventilation or safety equipment?
Laser machines require fume extraction systems to remove smoke and particles generated during marking. Gravotech offers integrated fume extraction units designed for each machine. Enclosed laser systems (Class 1) do not require additional laser safety equipment for operators. Open-frame systems may require laser safety eyewear and controlled access areas. Rotary and dot peen machines generate dust that should be extracted. Our team will specify the correct safety equipment for your installation.
How much space does a typical machine require?
Space requirements vary by machine. Compact desktop units like the M20 need approximately 60 x 60 cm of desk space. Mid-range machines like the LS100 require about 80 x 70 cm. Large-format systems like the IS400 need approximately 130 x 90 cm of floor space. All machines also need clearance for fume extraction ducting and operator access. Contact us for detailed installation requirements for your chosen machine.
Pricing & Leasing
How much does a Gravotech engraving machine cost?
Gravotech machine prices vary depending on the technology (laser, rotary, dot peen), power level, automation features, and accessories. Entry-level systems start from a few thousand dollars, while high-end industrial laser stations can reach higher price points. We provide customized quotations based on your specific application, materials, and production requirements. Contact us for a detailed quote.
Do you offer financing or leasing?
Yes. SOFRAY EMS offers equipment leasing solutions in partnership with Grenke, allowing businesses to acquire Gravotech machines with flexible monthly payments rather than a large upfront capital investment. Leasing preserves your working capital and may offer tax advantages. Contact us for a leasing quote.
How does the Grenke leasing program work?
Grenke is a leading international leasing provider. Through our partnership, you select the Gravotech machine you need, and Grenke finances the acquisition with fixed monthly payments over a term typically ranging from 24 to 60 months. At the end of the lease, you can purchase the equipment, return it, or upgrade to a newer model. The application process is straightforward, and approval is typically fast for established businesses.
What is included in the machine price?
Our standard machine packages include the machine itself, the required software license (Gravostyle, LaserTrace, or GravoTouch), professional installation at your site, initial operator training, and a standard warranty. Accessories such as fume extraction, rotary attachments, and specialized fixtures may be quoted separately depending on your configuration. We provide fully itemized quotations so you know exactly what is included.
Do you offer demo machines or trials?
Yes. We maintain a showroom at our Dubai office where you can see live demonstrations of Gravotech laser, rotary, and dot peen machines. You can bring your own materials and parts to test before making a purchasing decision. We also offer sample marking services — send us your parts and we will mark them and return the samples to you. Contact us to schedule a showroom visit.
Can I trade in my old machine?
We evaluate trade-in requests on a case-by-case basis. If you have an existing engraving or marking machine (Gravotech or other brand) that you wish to trade in as part of a new machine purchase, contact us with details of your current equipment and we will assess its value and apply it toward your new machine order where possible.
Installation & Support
Do you offer after-sales support and maintenance?
Yes. We offer installation, operator training, preventive maintenance contracts, remote and on-site technical support, spare parts, and our SofrayCare plan which includes a 48-hour on-site intervention guarantee and loaner machines for critical repairs.
Do you offer installation and training?
Yes. Every Gravotech machine purchased through SOFRAY EMS includes professional installation and operator training at your site. Our certified engineers will set up the machine, calibrate it, install the software, and train your operators on safe and effective use. Training covers machine operation, software workflows, basic maintenance, and troubleshooting. Additional advanced training sessions can be arranged on request.
What is the SofrayCare maintenance plan?
SofrayCare is our premium maintenance and support plan designed to maximize your machine uptime and productivity. It includes scheduled preventive maintenance visits, priority access to our technical support team, a 48-hour on-site intervention guarantee for critical issues, discounted spare parts, and access to loaner machines during extended repairs. SofrayCare plans are available as annual subscriptions. Learn more about SofrayCare.
What is the 48-hour intervention guarantee?
Under the SofrayCare plan, we guarantee that a certified SOFRAY EMS engineer will be on-site within 48 hours of a critical support request for customers in the UAE. For other GCC countries, intervention times may vary depending on location but we prioritize rapid response. This guarantee ensures minimal production downtime for our maintenance plan subscribers.
Do you offer remote technical support?
Yes. Our technical support team is available for remote assistance via phone, email, WhatsApp, and remote desktop sessions. Many software and configuration issues can be resolved remotely without waiting for an on-site visit. Remote support is available to all SOFRAY EMS customers and is included in the SofrayCare plan at no additional charge.
How do I order spare parts?
Contact our support team at mourade@sofray.com or call +971 505542585 with your machine model and the part you need. As an authorized Gravotech distributor, we carry common spare parts in stock in Dubai and can order any part directly from Gravotech's factory. We ship spare parts across the GCC with expedited options available for urgent needs.
What is the warranty on Gravotech machines?
Gravotech machines purchased through SOFRAY EMS come with a standard 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects in parts and workmanship. The warranty includes free repair or replacement of defective components. Extended warranty options and SofrayCare maintenance plans are available for customers seeking longer-term coverage and peace of mind.
Can you service machines purchased elsewhere?
Yes, we can service and maintain Gravotech machines regardless of where they were originally purchased. We are the authorized Gravotech service center for the GCC region. We also have experience servicing other engraving and marking equipment brands. Contact us to discuss your service needs.
Industries & Applications
What industries do you serve?
We serve luxury retail (perfume and jewelry personalization), industrial manufacturing (part traceability, serial numbering), signage and wayfinding, corporate gifting, medical devices (UDI compliance), aerospace (ATA Spec 2000), oil and gas, automotive, electronics, and education sectors across the GCC.
Can your machines engrave perfume bottles and luxury goods?
Yes. We provide engraving solutions for luxury retail personalization, including perfume bottle engraving, leather goods monogramming, jewelry inscription, and gift box customization. Our CO2 and fiber laser machines can engrave on glass, crystal, metal, leather, and wood with fine detail and elegant results. Many luxury boutiques in Dubai and across the GCC use our machines for in-store personalization services.
Do you have solutions for oil and gas part marking?
Yes. The oil and gas industry requires permanent, rugged part marking for traceability and safety compliance. We supply dot peen markers and fiber laser systems capable of marking serial numbers, DataMatrix codes, and identification data on pipes, valves, flanges, and other components made from hardened steel, stainless steel, and exotic alloys. Our markings withstand extreme temperatures, pressure, and corrosive environments.
What UDI marking solutions do you offer for medical devices?
We offer laser marking solutions that comply with FDA UDI (Unique Device Identification) and EU MDR requirements for medical devices. Our fiber and MOPA laser systems can permanently mark surgical instruments, implants, and medical equipment with DataMatrix codes, serial numbers, and manufacturer information on stainless steel, titanium, and other medical-grade materials without compromising biocompatibility or corrosion resistance.
Do you support ADA-compliant braille signage production?
Yes. Gravotech rotary engravers such as the IS400 are specifically designed for producing ADA-compliant braille and tactile signage. The machines can produce Grade 2 braille beads that meet ADA height and spacing specifications. Gravostyle software includes built-in braille translation and layout tools, making it easy to produce compliant wayfinding signs, room identification plates, and elevator panels.
Can your machines integrate with ERP or production line systems?
Yes. SOFRAY EMS offers system integration services to connect Gravotech machines with production lines, PLCs, ERP platforms, and e-commerce systems for seamless end-to-end personalization and traceability workflows. LaserTrace software supports database connectivity, automated job loading, and verification scanning for high-volume production environments.
Do you supply to universities and fablabs?
Yes. We supply Gravotech laser and rotary engraving machines to universities, technical colleges, fablabs, and makerspaces across the GCC. These machines are used for teaching design, engineering, and prototyping. We offer educational pricing, installation, and training packages tailored to academic environments.
Can I engrave QR codes and barcodes?
Yes. Our laser and dot peen marking systems can produce QR codes, DataMatrix codes, Code 128, Code 39, and other 1D and 2D barcode formats. The marking software supports automatic barcode generation from serial numbers or database inputs, and verification scanning can confirm readability. Barcode marking is used for inventory tracking, product authentication, and regulatory compliance.
What is the deepest mark your dot peen systems can make?
Gravotech dot peen systems can typically achieve marking depths of up to 0.3 mm on mild steel and 0.2 mm on hardened steel, depending on the model and material. For applications requiring deeper marks, multiple passes can increase depth. The marking depth is adjustable through software settings, allowing you to optimize for readability and material requirements. Contact us for specific depth capabilities on your material.
GCC Coverage
Do you have engineers based in Saudi Arabia?
We deploy field engineers to Saudi Arabia for installations, training, and service calls. While our main engineering team is based in Dubai, we have established logistics and travel protocols to serve Saudi clients efficiently. For SofrayCare plan subscribers in major Saudi cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, we provide priority scheduling for on-site support.
Can you ship machines to Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, or Oman?
Yes. We regularly ship Gravotech machines to all GCC countries including Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. We handle the complete logistics chain including packaging, freight forwarding, and coordination with local customs. Delivery times vary by destination but are typically 1 to 2 weeks from order confirmation for machines in stock.
Do you handle customs clearance for GCC imports?
Yes. SOFRAY EMS assists with customs documentation and clearance for machine shipments within the GCC. We prepare the required commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and technical documentation. For customers in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, we coordinate with local freight agents to ensure smooth customs processing.
Are Gravotech machines compliant with GCC technical standards?
Yes. Gravotech machines carry CE certification and comply with international electrical safety and laser safety standards (IEC 60825 for laser products). These certifications are recognized across the GCC. For specific country import requirements, we provide the necessary technical documentation and compliance certificates as part of the supply process.
Can I visit a showroom or see a live demonstration?
Yes. Our Dubai showroom at Office 302, Sama Building, Al Barsha 1 has multiple Gravotech machines available for live demonstrations. You can bring your own materials and parts to test. We also participate in regional trade shows and exhibitions. Contact us to schedule a showroom visit or to inquire about upcoming exhibition dates.
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