Tech

Tips to Avoid Laser Engraving Mistakes

Regardless of if someone is a beginner or more experienced using laser machines, learning the right way to use them to avoid takes practice and time. Sometimes, a laser user will face issues that will result in them wondering what was done wrong and how to do it better in the future.

By knowing what the most common mistakes are, it is possible to avoid them. The same applies to someone who is buying a laser – by getting to know the boss laser complaints, it is possible to know if it should be purchased or not. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most common mistakes that users make when using a laser engraver or cutter.

Allowing the Laser to Burn Through the Engraving Material

One of the first mistakes a user needs to avoid is burning the engraving material with the machine being used. To do this, it is necessary to understand what materials can endure this process and what temperatures they are resistant to.

For example, materials such as wood and leather can withstand higher power settings while being engraved. However, with more sensitive materials, using lower power settings and higher speeds is necessary.

The power level needs to be set at five to 10% and the speed needs to be between 90% and 100%. Before someone begins engraving, they should test the settings on extra pieces of the material. This will ensure the main project pieces are not seriously damaged.

Engraving Wood Creates Different Results Using the Same Setting

Wood is one of the best materials available to use for engravings. Not only will the laser cut through this easily, but the engravings after this procedure look great. However, it is also necessary to understand that each type of wood will have a unique reaction to laser engraving procedures. This will eventually result in varied engraving results.

For example, with lighter woods, such as cherry or maple, there will be a nice contract created where the laser burns the material. However, thicker woods will require the use of more laser power to cut through it to provide the desired engraving results. The wood’s density texture will alter based on the type of wood that is being worked with. With walnut, maple, and cherry wood, there are all similar veins of texture, and oak typically has medium and often large veins.

With maple woods (which are extremely popular) a rich contract is created when a laser is used. If someone engraves on bare wood, it will create debris during the process, which may remain on the texture permanently. For projects where this needs to be avoided, be sure to engrave starting at the bottom and moving up. This will help to keep some of the smoke away from the engraving.

If someone is engraving something on stained wood, the excess debris can be wiped off the surface. This will ensure no adverse issues remain once the engraving process is complete. Being informed and knowing what mistakes to avoid is essential.