Kevin,
Cermark is not another machine, it is a brand name for the additive laser marking process (also sold as Thermark).
http://www.ferro.com/Our+Products/Co...rkets/CerMark/
This would require spraying the aluminum (or paste/tape) which the laser then bonds to the metal. It is very effective and produces a nice black mark.
It isn't cheap, but for a small area is reasonable. It was even discussed recently on here how to make the fluid using cheap ingredients although I haven't tested how well that works.
Just a comment on the Thermark though. I recommend the paste which can be diluted several times more than the manufacturer suggests and then sprayed VERY thin with an airbrush. It is extremely abrasion resistant when done correctly.
Zax.