IM3
The IM3 is a manual engraving machine (pantograph) for personalization and signage applications. Weighing just 11 kg with a 250 x 140 mm marking area, this best-selling Gravotech pantograph operates without any computer, software, or electronic device. The operator selects characters from 40+ international character sets and engraves manually with precision starting from 0.025 mm depth. Handles objects up to 10 kg on brass, copper, steel, plastics, wood, and glass. Suitable for workshops, shops, retail locations, offices, and factories.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
OVERVIEW
The Gravotech IM3 is one of Gravotech's best-selling manual engraving machines, built on the proven pantograph principle that has served engravers worldwide for decades. Weighing just 11 kg and measuring 580 x 510 x 280 mm, this robust machine delivers precision mechanical engraving without the need for any computer, software, or electronic device.
The operating principle is elegantly simple: the arm is fitted with a stylus that moves in the groove of a character model, while a second arm fitted with a pin reproduces the composition on the workpiece. Operators select from more than 40 international character sets and start engraving immediately. The depth adjuster starts from 0.025 mm, giving fine control over engraving depth on materials from soft plastics to hard metals.
With a generous 250 x 140 mm marking area and the ability to handle objects up to 10 kg with unlimited length and width, the IM3 covers everything from small name badges and pet tags to medium-sized industrial labels and trophy plates. The machine accepts 3.17 mm diameter tools — steel cutters, carbide cutters, or diamond cutters. When fitted with a non-rotating diamond tip, the IM3 can even operate entirely without electrical power, making it uniquely versatile for mobile or remote operations.
Throughout the years, the IM3 pantograph has remained fundamentally unchanged: a sturdy and precise machine that lasts for decades. Its entirely mechanical structure is easy to access for maintenance, with no electronics to fail and no software to update. Auto-centering jigs, centering brackets, jaw covers, and depth adjustment noses are included for plate engraving, jewelry, watches, badges, and pens.
KEY FEATURES
No Computer Required
Operates purely mechanically with pantograph tracing. No software, no training curve, no technical downtime.
Modular Design
Expand capabilities with optional vices, cylindrical attachments, and diamond drag tools for different applications.
Industrial Reliability
Mechanical operation means no electronics to fail. Built with industrial-grade components for decades of service.
Multiple Reduction Ratios
Adjust the pantograph ratio to engrave at different scales from the same template — from 1:1 to fine miniature work.
Immediate Production
No warm-up time, no calibration. Insert material, trace the template, and start engraving within seconds.
Low Operating Cost
No software licenses, no consumable laser tubes or gases. Only replacement cutters are needed as consumables.
MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY
Engraving Plastics
Two-layer and multi-layer engraving laminates including ABS, acrylic, and specialty substrates in 80+ color combinations.
Soft Metals
Brass plates, aluminum tags, and anodized aluminum sheets for professional nameplates and labels.
Glass
Surface engraving on flat glass items using diamond-drag tooling for decorative applications.
Wood
Hardwood and softwood blanks for plaques, awards, and decorative signage.
APPLICATIONS
Retail Personalization
Engrave names, initials, and dates on perfume bottles, leather goods, jewelry boxes, and gift items directly in-store.
Industrial Signage
Produce durable nameplates, control panel labels, safety signs, and equipment tags for factories and offices.
Trophy & Award Engraving
Create professional trophy plates, medals, and award plaques with clean, deep engravings.
Pet Tags & Key Fobs
Quick personalization of pet ID tags, key fobs, and small gift items for retail kiosks.
PERFECT FOR THESE INDUSTRIES
WHY CHOOSE SOFRAY EMS
Zero reliance on computers or software — ideal for environments where simplicity and reliability matter most
Extremely low total cost of ownership with no license fees or complex maintenance
Proven pantograph technology trusted by engravers worldwide for over 50 years
Perfect entry point into the engraving business with immediate return on investment
Backed by SOFRAY EMS local support, training, and maintenance across the GCC region
TECHNICAL DETAILS
The IM3 measures 580 x 510 x 280 mm and weighs 11 kg, making it easy to position on any workbench. The marking area spans 250 x 140 mm with engraving depth adjustment starting from 0.025 mm. The top-load spindle accepts 3.17 mm diameter tools — steel cutters, carbide cutters, or diamond cutters. When fitted with a non-rotating diamond tip, the machine can operate entirely without electrical power. The auto-centering jig positions items instantly for immediate engraving. More than 40 international character sets are available. Jaw covers accommodate plate engraving, jewelry, watches, badges, and pens. Maximum object weight is 10 kg with unlimited length and width. Noise level is below 80 dB during operation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does the IM3 require a computer to operate?
No. The IM3 is a fully manual pantograph machine. It uses physical templates and a stylus system — no computer, no software, and no technical training required.
What materials can the IM3 engrave?
The IM3 engraves on plastics (ABS, acrylic laminates), soft metals (brass, aluminum), glass, and wood. It works best with Gravotech engraving plastics and metal plates.
Can the IM3 engrave cylindrical objects like rings?
With the optional cylindrical vice attachment, the IM3 can engrave on round objects such as rings, bangles, pens, and small cylindrical parts.
What is the maximum engraving depth?
Engraving depth depends on the material and cutter used. On engraving plastics, typical depths range from 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm. On soft metals, depths up to 0.3 mm are standard.
Is the IM3 suitable for Arabic text engraving?
Yes. With the appropriate Arabic character template set, the IM3 can engrave Arabic text. Contact SOFRAY EMS for Arabic template availability.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact SOFRAY EMS for a personalized quote, live demonstration, or sample marking on your materials.
