Laser Engraving: Precision Marking and Cutting

Laser engraving is a precise technique that uses a focused laser beam to create permanent designs on various materials. It stands alongside other laser marking methods like etching, annealing, and ablation. Here's what you need to know about laser engraving:

Process Overview:

• Laser engraving vaporizes the surface of a workpiece, leaving a lasting mark.
• Unlike other laser marking methods, engraving creates deeper, more durable, and highly contrasted marks.

Depth and Contrast:

• The depth of laser engraving varies based on material and machine settings.
• The strong contrast between marked and unmarked areas ensures visibility.

Applications:

• Industries use laser engraving for:
  • Product traceability (e.g., serial numbers, barcodes)
  • Identification (e.g., logos, QR codes)
  • Decoration >>

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Laser Cutting:

• By increasing laser power and reducing speed, laser engravers can also perform cutting tasks.

Pre-requisites:

Before starting laser engraving, ensure the following:

• Coordinate with a Marvel lab coordinator and obtain necessary permissions.
• Download the Lightburn software and install any required drivers.
  • Download Lightburn
• Familiarize yourself with the basics and safety precautions by researching online.

Steps for Engraving and Cutting a Basic Keychain:

1. Exhaust Setup:
   • Direct the exhaust pipe securely out of the window next to the machine.

2 . Machine Initialization:

• Insert the CNC machine key provided by the lab assistant.
• Turn on both switches behind the machine.
• Rotate the machine key clockwise once to activate the chiller and control panel.

3 . Chiller Setup:

• The chiller should read a temperature below 27°C.
• If the alarm light is on and the chiller beeps continuously, top it up with distilled water using the tap on the chiller.

4.Tool Head Inspection:

• Raise the hydraulic-supported shields.
• Manually move the tool head using the machine's control panel to check for defects.

5.Software Setup:

• Connect the USB cable from the machine to your system.

• Launch Lightburn and use the "FindMyLaser" option to initialize the machine.

6.Design and Execution:

• Use the shapes panel on the left side of the screen to create your design.
• Utilize layers for different operations:
  • Fill: Etches the entire space inside the boundary (Power: MAX 80, MIN 30).(No. of passes : 5)
  • Line: Traces the boundary (Power: MAX 30, MIN 15) (No. of passes : 2)

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7.Preview and Positioning:

• Use the "FRAME" option to preview the work area.
• Adjust the position of your work accordingly.

8.Execution:

• Use the preview option to recheck your diagram

• Close the shield and hit "START."

• In case of issues, press the red emergency button on the machine.

• Monitor the work actively; raising the shield will pause the job.

9.Completion:

• After engraving/cutting, open the shield, retrieve your workpiece.
• Systemically switch off the machine, keep the exhaust manifold inside, and close the shield.

10.Crazy Outputs

Remember safety protocols and enjoy creating with laser engraving! 🛠️🔥