First attempts with a laser....
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- Vectric Apprentice
- Posts: 77
- Joined: Thu Jun 06, 2019 4:54 pm
- Model of CNC Machine: Oozenest Ox 500 x 750/Openbuilds Minimil
First attempts with a laser....
I finally got the post processor sorted for outputting files for the laser cutter. The maximum size on the Minimill is 120mm x 120mm so I will be transferring the laser module to my router for larger work. The toolpaths were created with Cut2D Quick engraving and a tool profile was set up for the laser. The results are encouraging. If anyone can suggest improvments, please do......
- TReischl
- Vectric Wizard
- Posts: 4645
- Joined: Thu Jan 18, 2007 6:04 pm
- Model of CNC Machine: 8020 48X36X7 RP 2022 UCCNC Screenset
- Location: Leland NC
Re: First attempts with a laser....
That is looking pretty darn good.
The slight surface smudging in corners is pretty normal for laser cutting on a mill type or router type machine. A very light hit with sandpaper usually removes it nicely. It is caused by the accel/decel needed on these machines. Dedicated laser cutters have extremely light heads so they can accel/decel much faster.
Looks really good to me as I said!
Want to have some really neat looking carvings? Carve a piece and then use the laser to highlight the edges, flat out makes a carving POP!
The slight surface smudging in corners is pretty normal for laser cutting on a mill type or router type machine. A very light hit with sandpaper usually removes it nicely. It is caused by the accel/decel needed on these machines. Dedicated laser cutters have extremely light heads so they can accel/decel much faster.
Looks really good to me as I said!
Want to have some really neat looking carvings? Carve a piece and then use the laser to highlight the edges, flat out makes a carving POP!
"If you see a good fight, get in it." Dr. Vernon Johns
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- Vectric Apprentice
- Posts: 77
- Joined: Thu Jun 06, 2019 4:54 pm
- Model of CNC Machine: Oozenest Ox 500 x 750/Openbuilds Minimil
Re: First attempts with a laser....
Many thanks! Highlighting carvings sounds a bit advanced for me. I only have Cut2D which won't do 3D carving. I will upgrade as funds allow. Not having much luck actually cutting stuff out with the laser, are there any alternative post processors, I am using J_Tec one at the moment...
Re: First attempts with a laser....
Not having much luck actually cutting stuff out with the laser,
Really depends on the wattage of the laser. My first laser was a 25 watt, which was okay for light engraving, but sucked for everything else. I upgraded to a 400 watt, which will cut up to 3/4" thick, which I enjoy and use a lot. I also have a 60 watt, which will cut up to 5/32" with several passes.