Laser Cutter Introduction
This page is INCOMPLETE and still missing some important information before it can be used as a resource. Please use the "Discussion" feature above or talk to one of the tutors if you would like to help improve it. Thanks!
This is the content required for an introduction to our laser cutter- reading this does NOT replace the mandatory session with a tutor! It will make it a lot quicker though ;-)
Let's begin! First off, make sure you have read the machine's manual (available on the Laser PC).
Safety
Personal protection: no special PPE needed since the enclosure protects you.
| Dangers | Precautions |
|---|---|
| Fumes generated by burning through your work-piece might be dangerous |
|
| Invisible but powerful IR radiation | luckily contained by the enclosure (laser class 1). |
| Fire can destroy the machine! | Do not leave the room when operating the machine. |
Basics of Laser Cutting
The Tutor will show you:
- content of the entire laser cutter wiki page
- especially forbidden materials!
Operating the machine
The Tutor will first show you the basic operations at the Laser:
- How to prepare the laser cutter
- to prevent fires, clean the tray under the table when it gets cluttered with little pieces
- clean lens (roll Q-tips with isopropanol over lens - roll with light pressure, do not wipe) if necessary
- you can use a mirror or cellphone selfie-cam to look under the lens - only with the laser pointer disabled!
- clean mirror/s (especially mirror above lens) if necessary
- How to turn on the laser
- How to turn on the water cooling system
- How to move the x and y motors by using the control panel
- How to ensure the focus of the laser is set correctly by moving the table up and down
- How to use the emergency stop
- How to check the safety switches: laser turns off when glass is lifted - important when fire breaks out!
- also useful if you only have one try and want a "dry run" using only the pointer (that laser stays on
This should act as a guide, tutors can always emphasize or add points of importance.
Workflow
The Tutor will show you:
- How to create or edit your svg-file (using Inkscape or similar programs).
- How to generate a dxf-file (use DXF R14 if your program supports this) to import into LaserCut 5.3
- Introduction to LaserCut 5.3 running on our Laser-PC
- settings, raster vs. vector, our collection of material related settings
- importing settings
- software
- install Inkscape or similar software to produce vector files
- install LaserCut 5.3 (Demo version, Windows only)
- download/import settings
- import DXF file into LaserCut 5.3, set cutting/engraving settings per path
- calculate time estimate
- transfer job via LaserCut 5.3
- execution
- activate exhaust system
- start the job either via the Laser PC or on the cutter's display
- observe cutting, watch for irregular fumes or flames - especially if testing new materials
- cutting might not work for the first one or two cm after a "cold start" - in that case, restart the job briefly at the end
- do not leave the laser cutter unattended!
- cutting: stay at the machine the entire time!
- engraving: stay at least within sight and earshot!
- after cutting
- switch off exhaust system
- remove parts from table
- vacuum table if necessary
- share your experiences with the others :-)
- donate for the machine time!
- currently 50 ct per minute
Waiting List
This introduction takes longer than many others and usually can't be done spontaneously during regular opening times. If you would like to receive it, please add yourself to >> this list << and we will find a good time once a few members are on it!
