🤔 Materials that probably shouldn't be used

There are some materials that, whilst not on the banned list,
are problematic in other ways and should be avoided:

Oily or resinous wood

Pine, cedar, eucalyptus or teak woods have a high resin or oil content and will char excessively. They may ignite easily. Use untreated hardwoods such as maple or birch instead.

Reflective metals (not mirror-finished)

Aluminium, brass and copper may reflect the laser back along the optical path and cause damage to the machine. Metals will not cut using a CO₂ laser. If engraving, use a laser safe coating and lowest effective power.

Corrugated cardboard

Air pockets within the corrugations increase fire risk. Monitor the cut or engraving carefully and continuously.

Foam board (paper-foam-paper laminate)

Foamboard will cut nicely on the laser, but... The paper coating will scorch, and the foam layer will shrink away from the cut leaving unsupported edges. There is a greater risk of fire due to the lamination and melting plastic.

Poll icons created by Freepik - Flaticon