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80 watt laser engraver: Difference between revisions
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== Powering up the machine == | == Using the machine == | ||
regurgitate the above here | |||
=== Powering up the machine === | |||
With very few exceptions, the same order of operations should always be maintained for safe proper operation. Failing to enable a portion of the cooling system will damage the laser. | With very few exceptions, the same order of operations should always be maintained for safe proper operation. Failing to enable a portion of the cooling system will damage the laser. | ||
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The laser is now active and ready to accept instructions from the laptop. | The laser is now active and ready to accept instructions from the laptop. | ||
=== Focusing the Laser === | |||
[[File:LaserPath.png|300px|thumb|right|Figure 1. laser path visualization]] | |||
Depending on the thickness of the material and whether you are cutting or engraving you will need to set an appropriate focal distance. The beam does not come out of the lens parallel, but in fact is conically shaped. See: Figure 1. | |||
==== Focal Depth: ==== | |||
[[File:LaserFocus.png|300px|thumb|right|Figure 2. Focal Depth: Bottom shows resultant cut shape.]] | |||
For engraving, you want the focal point right on the surface for the fastest/most efficient results. | |||
For cutting, you want the focal point to be near the midpoint of the thickness of the material so that it makes the straightest edges on the cuts. See Figure 2. | |||
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== Shutting down the machine == | === Shutting down the machine === | ||
Following the same steps in reverse order will help ensure the machine is left in a safe mode. | Following the same steps in reverse order will help ensure the machine is left in a safe mode. | ||
# Activate E-stop to render the work-area safe. | # Activate E-stop to render the work-area safe. | ||