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Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner (view source)
Revision as of 21:02, 28 July 2022
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=== Vectoring ===
=== Vectoring ===
Vectoring consists of following vector lines specified in your program. Vectoring is most often used to cut through a material. However, at lower settings it can also be used to engrave. Instead of moving back and forth, the laser is following a “vector”. A vector is a line with a specified direction and magnitude. In other words, a line that connects two points. Our laser has a point of 0.001” (0.0254 mm) in diameter. For a line to be recognized as a vector, the line width has to be the size of the point. We will explain how to do this further in this document.
Vectoring consists of following vector lines specified in your program. Vectoring is most often used to cut through a material. However, at lower settings it can also be used to engrave. Instead of moving back and forth, the laser is following a “vector”. A vector is a line with a specified direction and magnitude. In other words, a line that connects two points. Our laser has a point of 0.001” (0.0254 mm) in diameter. For a line to be recognized as a vector, the line width has to be the size of the point. We will explain how to do this further in this document.
== [[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/Laser Cutter Components|Laser Cutter Components]] ==
== [[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/Laser Cutter Components|Laser Cutter Components]] ==
##'''Power:''' Determines the amount of laser energy that is delivered to the piece being cut/engraved and is adjustable in 1% increments.Each materials have their own specific value and can be in “Suggested Material settings” which is located next to the laser cutters in Makerspace.
##'''Power:''' Determines the amount of laser energy that is delivered to the piece being cut/engraved and is adjustable in 1% increments.Each materials have their own specific value and can be in “Suggested Material settings” which is located next to the laser cutters in Makerspace.
##'''Frequency:''' Determines the number of laser pulses per inch of cut.Lower the frequency,the less heat being applied to the material. The frequency can range between 1 to 5000..Each materials have their own specific value and can be in “Suggested Material settings” which is located next to the laser cutters in Makerspace.
##'''Frequency:''' Determines the number of laser pulses per inch of cut.Lower the frequency,the less heat being applied to the material. The frequency can range between 1 to 5000..Each materials have their own specific value and can be in “Suggested Material settings” which is located next to the laser cutters in Makerspace.
==[[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/Which Laser Cutters do we have?|Which Laser Cutters do we have?]]==
The pictures below shows the laser cutters available for use at the Makerspace. The biggest difference between the two laser is the build volume. The Epilog Helix can cut materials with a maximum size of 24 x 18 in while the Epilog mini can cut with a maximum size of 24 x 12.
{{LaserInfobox
| name = Epilog Mini 24
| image = mini24.jpg
| powerSource = CO2
| powerRating = 50W
| materials = see charts below
| maxResolution = 1200
|float=none|buildWidth=610|buildDepth=305|buildHeight=140|buildWidthIN=24|buildDepthIN=12|buildHeightIN=5.5}}
{{LaserInfobox
| name = Epilog Helix
| image = helix.png
| powerSource = CO2
| powerRating = 60W
| materials = see charts below
| maxResolution = 1200
|float=none|buildWidth=610|buildDepth=457|buildHeight=216|buildWidthIN=24|buildDepthIN=18|buildHeightIN=8.5}}
==[[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/Laser Safety|Laser Safety]]==
<youtube>rjiHHtYY53M</youtube>
*In operation there is a laser diode pointer (red dot pointer), this is similar to a laser pen but it should never be directed into anyone's eyes. The actual laser beam that will be cutting is invisible so never modify the enclosure.
*The filter should always be attached while performing a cut, the laser cutter is not to be used without the filter, this ensures that the air in the room is safe for users and limits potentially hazardous debris
*The laser can cut many materials but some materials that can be hazardous or dangerous to cut (ex. the small dust particles of MDF are cancer causing).
*Never let the laser system operate unattended.
*Always use the air compressor (located below the table or on the wall) to provide sufficient airflow for the cut.
*A vector cut moves much slower than a raster engrave therefore a lot of heat is being applied to the material for a longer time, which may cause it to combust.
*Make sure you know where the fire extinguisher is (on the red wall) and the closest emergency exit.
*Always remove debris from crumb tray after machine use to prevent fires.
*Never disassemble the machine or remove protective covers. Never open the machines access panels while unit is plugged in. The AC input to the Epilog Laser is potentially lethal and fully contained in the cabinet.
'''Tips: There are a few important safety features incorporated into the laser cutter. Placed on the glass lid is a magnetic switch. If the lid is opened while the laser is running, the lense mechanism will keep moving, but the laser will stop firing. This means that it is very difficult (if not impossible) to burn yourself with the laser. A similar mechanism is incorporated into the front door.'''
==[[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/Material Settings|Material Settings]]==
==[[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/Material Settings|Material Settings]]==
===Materials not allowed in the CO<sub>2</sub> laser===
===Materials not allowed in the CO<sub>2</sub> laser===
|}
|}
==[[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/How to Laser Cut in the Makerspace|How to Laser Cut in the Makerspace]]==
==[[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner/How to Laser Cut in the Makerspace|How to Laser Cut in the Makerspace]]==