LaserCutter: Difference between revisions

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'''Before starting, please read the [http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/safety.htm#safgui Safety Guidelines]'''
Laser cutters are an excellent tool for cutting and engraving wood and acrylic glass. To get started, you will need a vector file (bought online or created by yourself in inkscape/illustrator) and a laser-safe material. This page will give you an overview over the laser cutter, safety information, and instruction on how to use it. Before using it, you must complete a machine introduction course.


== Current Status ==
== Current Status ==
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We recommend that new users cut/engrave poplar (wood) or MDF. A good list of [http://wiki.atxhs.org/wiki/Laser_Cutter_Materials dangerous and safe materials can be found here].
We recommend that new users cut/engrave poplar (wood) or MDF. A good list of [http://wiki.atxhs.org/wiki/Laser_Cutter_Materials dangerous and safe materials can be found here].
If you are unsure what material it is or if you can not find information if it is safe to laser, always default to 'unsafe' and do not laser-cut.
If you are unsure what material it is or if you can not find information if it is safe to laser, always default to 'unsafe' and do not laser-cut.
== Preparing your files ==
# Connect your computer to the "munichmakerlab" wifi. The password is written on the postbox mounted on the workshop door.
# Using the (windows pre-installed) "remote desktop" or (mac, additional software) "[https://apps.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-remote-desktop/id1295203466?mt=12 Microsoft Remote Desktop]", connect to "laserpc" (or IP 10.10.20.81). The username and password are 'makerman'.
# Once connected, navigate to the Z:\laser\ folder and create a folder with your (lab-unique) name or nickname
# Now you can copy and paste vector files (.ai, .dxf, .svg) from your local computer into the folder on the computer
# Open LightBurn on the laserpc (icon on the desktop) and import (ctrl + i) your file


== Technical Details & Manuals ==
== Technical Details & Manuals ==

Revision as of 12:53, 21 October 2022

Attention Attention: Dangerous machine ahead Attention
Use only at your own risk, and after proper instruction!
Attention Attention: Maintenance Attention
Machine is currently not working (ETA unknown)
   
LaserCutter

Status: broken [box doku]

Lasercutter01.jpg
Description A Laser to cut stuff
Owner  MuMaLab

Laser cutters are an excellent tool for cutting and engraving wood and acrylic glass. To get started, you will need a vector file (bought online or created by yourself in inkscape/illustrator) and a laser-safe material. This page will give you an overview over the laser cutter, safety information, and instruction on how to use it. Before using it, you must complete a machine introduction course.

Current Status

  • Undergoing major maintenance and upgrades
  • Lens: 50mm

Features

  • Big build area (Table Size: 1240 x 1000 mm / max Cutting Size: 1140 x 800 mm)
  • Pilot laser for dry run and positioning
  • 90W CO2, wavelength ≈ 10 microns

Components / Parts

  • Trocen AWC7824 Controller Laser Engraving Cutting Controller
  • Reci 90W CO2 Laser Tube
  • DY13 100W Laser PSU
  • OpenLaserSafety v1.0
  • Exhaust System including filters

Safety

Laser cutters are dangerous in various aspects. There is an invisible laser beam that can permanently damage your eye. The fumes that escape while laser-cutting or engraving materials are at least unhealthy, in some cases toxic and worst case can cause severe health issues when inhaled. There is also a chance of starting a fire if operated incorrectly.

  • Undergoing a training course is mandatory before you start using the laser.
  • Do not tamper or work around any safety measures, including the machine activation or laser safety circuit.
  • Always (with no exception) supervise the machine or have someone supervise it for you. Do not leave the laser cutter unattended while a job is running.
  • Immediately e-stop the machine in case of a fire and after that start extinguishing it.
  • Stop the laser job and investigate if you smell or hear anything weird.
  • Make sure nobody stays in the pit (performing work, ...) and hang the white/red chain before starting the laser.
  • Never attempt to laser-cut unknown or dangerous materials. If in doubt, do not laser-cut.

Laser-cutable materials

We recommend that new users cut/engrave poplar (wood) or MDF. A good list of dangerous and safe materials can be found here. If you are unsure what material it is or if you can not find information if it is safe to laser, always default to 'unsafe' and do not laser-cut.

Preparing your files

  1. Connect your computer to the "munichmakerlab" wifi. The password is written on the postbox mounted on the workshop door.
  2. Using the (windows pre-installed) "remote desktop" or (mac, additional software) "Microsoft Remote Desktop", connect to "laserpc" (or IP 10.10.20.81). The username and password are 'makerman'.
  3. Once connected, navigate to the Z:\laser\ folder and create a folder with your (lab-unique) name or nickname
  4. Now you can copy and paste vector files (.ai, .dxf, .svg) from your local computer into the folder on the computer
  5. Open LightBurn on the laserpc (icon on the desktop) and import (ctrl + i) your file

Technical Details & Manuals

These resources are not needed by users.


Finance

A 100W laser tube costs around 1200€ and has a lifetime of 6000-10000h. On the 20150315 Plenum/20161009 Plenum), it was decided that the following usage fee will be charged:

  • 2€ per 10min for members, 4€ for non-members, 5€ for "commercial" use