Laser cutter, large (Rabbit Laser RL-80-1290) ID:6
| [[File:{{{id}}}.jpg|250px]] | |
| Type | Laser Cutter |
| Make/Model | RL1290 |
| Serial number | ?? |
| Original owner | Brian Queen |
| Loan status | Semi-Permanent Loan |
| Arrival date | Before 2013 |
| Location | Main Bay |
| Functional status | Limited Functionality (Nov 24, 2015) |
| Usage permissions | Members & Friends Only |
| Certification | Must complete Laser Certification |
| Wiki-ID | [[{{{id}}}]] |
| Label | 1.0" 1.5" 2.0" |
Arguably the most popular tool at Protospace, the Laser Cutter uses a CO2 laser to cut & engrave a variety of non-metal materials (though some metals can be engraved).
Software
We currently have LaserCut 5.3 installed on the computer connected to the Laser Cutter. Unfortunately LaserCut 5.3 requires a USB dongle to be hooked up to the PC at all times as a form of DRM. If you're running a personal copy you are restricted to a demo version (no saving - though there is a work around). Later versions (6.1+) have dropped the USB dongle requirement.
Downloads
LaserCut 5.3 (Google Drive, Direct from Leetro)
The full version, but requires a special SenseLock USB Dongle to be connected to the PC running it or the software is limited to a demo mode (which is still useful for familiarizing yourself with the program).
| It is imperative that you do a Chlorine Test on unapproved materials before working on them with the Laser Cutter |
Specs
- 80 watt
- 4x3' CNC bed
- Front shield can be dropped to insert pieces longer than 3'
- Water cooled & Ducted
- Can cut or etch up to 1/2" thick light materials such as woods and some plastics
- Cannot cut any chlorinated synthetics (some types of plastics & rubbers)
Usage Notes
- Complete Laser Certification to learn how to use the laser. Training is offered about once a month.
- Perform a simple Chlorine Test on unapproved materials, as cutting or etching chlorinated materials damages the optics
- See Power Levels page for notes and details on cutting and etching various materials
- Power modulation is in a restricted range in the software due to a firmware bug (Approximately 8%-30% represents 0%-100% power)
- Controller occasionally locks up after large cut jobs. E-stop immediately if job timer does not increment in first 5 seconds of job. Post to list for recovery instructions
- Consult our Laser Standard Operating Procedure
History
- Originally on loan for 6 months (ending Aug 2012) in exchange for Protospace performing repairs.
- Loan has been extended.
Repairs Needed
- Upgrades discussed
- Adding air cooling to optics and laser head block
- Convincing power supply to modulate power levels properly
- Seal display on controller to prevent smoke from clouding over time.