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π₯οΈ Software
Things to know about the software used to run the laser
πΎ RDWorks
The laser uses RDWorks v8 software. As users are charged by contact time, it is suggested that you download the software to your own computer and become familiar with it prior to starting to use the laser. You should prepare your design in advance of your lase...
ποΈ Importing files
βοΈ Hardware
Things you need to know about the laser itself
π¨ Health & Safety
Assessing the risks of using the laser and managing them appropriately
π¨ Air quality
The extraction system for the laser is adequate, but not brilliant. Some members at the Hackspace are sensitive to the smoke and fumes created by cutting some materials, so the following rules are in place: Before cutting Check the air quality monitor behind t...
π₯ Fire risk
Remember that there is only a laser in the space due to a fire caused by inattention. Any material that the laser will cut through presents an inherent risk of catching fire. Before you use the laser Make sure you know what you are cutting is safe to use - see...
ποΈ Eye damage
The laser beam and reflected light are invisible and will damage unprotected eyes. Whilst the lid is down, the laser light is contained. Until a leather skirt is attached to the lid, there is a possibility of reflected laser light escaping from under it, so us...
βοΈ What materials can I cut/engrave?
What you can, probably shouldn't, and cannot under any circumstances put in the laser
β Materials that are safe to laser
These materials are 'safe' to laser, but are still to be considered a fire risk. Please follow individual guidance for the material to reduce this risk. Wood-based materials Cutting these items will leave a sooty edge in most cases, which will wipe off with a ...
π€ 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. U...
π« NEVER LASER THESE MATERIALS
These materials should never be used in the laser. This is not anΒ exhaustive list. If you are not sure, don't use it and find out. PVC, vinyl, neoprene, pleather, PTFE (Teflon) When heated, these materials release chlorine or similar gases. This is a respirato...
π Recommended suppliers
These suppliers have been recommended by members: laserply.co.uk kitronik.co.uk hobarts.co.uk
π Operating the laser
How to cut or engrave something using the laser
β‘οΈTurning on the laser
Turn on the plug near the computer area The cooler should beep as it powers up. If it does not, check that the unit is switched on before proceeding. Check the temperature displayed on the cooler behind the laser; it should be higher than (currently) 15Β°C. If ...
β Pre-use checks
Ensure the bed is clear of debris Ensure the blades and bed are clean to reduce flashback* Check the air quality monitor is green (see health and safety guidance) Check that nothing is obstructing the extraction vents at the rear of the laser bed Check that th...
π― Homing the laser
Make sure the red lens focus tube is raised and fixed in place. Don't forget that the tightener screws the opposite way to normal, and that you must support the bottom part of the tube so that it doesn't drop out. On the laser panel, press the yellow home butt...