Laser Cutter

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Info

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  • Owner/Loaner: The Maker Station
  • Serial Number:
  • Make/Model: Orion 60 Watt
  • Arrival Date: 2020
  • Usability: Warning.pngRestricted Usage/Training RequiredWarning.png
  • Contact: #laser-cutter channel on Slack
  • Where: Back shop unit 2 near the roll up door for now


LaserCutter Safety.png

General Specs

  • It is a 60 watt laser
  • x approx 700 mm
  • y approx 500 mm
  • z

Permissions

  • Warning.pngRestricted Access Warning.png TRAINING REQUIRED Warning.png
  • Contact knowledgeable makerspace members using the #laser-cutter channel on Slack for training and access to the lasercutter
  • Treat equipment as if it were your own and put away as or better than you found it
  • Allow time for cleaning up after work is complete

Restrictions

  • DO NOT cut material containing chlorine atoms or molecules Skullcrossbones.pngSkullcrossbones.pngSkullcrossbones.png
  • How to test unknown plastics to see if they contain chlorine: https://vimeo.com/1615418

Places to purchase acrylic and laser cutting material

Piedmont Plastics - in Dacula Canal Plastics TAP Plastics McMaster-Carr - in Douglasville; you can pick up at the location by calling ahead

Be prepared to soak cast acrylic in warm water to remove the protective paper.

The extruded acrylic from big box stores, such as the Optix brand from Lowes, cuts very slowly and is prone to catching fire. The cast acrylic from the above industrial vendors are recommended.

Basic Instructions

Use Lightburn to design and control the laser

https://lightburnsoftware.com/

Warnings

  • Keep loose hair and sleeves away from all moving parts.
  • Beware of hot parts.
  • Beware of dust, fumes, choking hazards.
  • Never leave machine unattended


Safety Warning.png

  • Do not stare at the laser, it is very bright and can damage your vision
  • Do not operate the laser with the lid open
  • Do not look through any cutouts or openings at the firing laser. It can damage your vision.
  • Make sure the exhaust is vented as appropriate for the materials you are cutting.
  • If you are cutting plastics, make sure you understand what exhaust gases will be produced. Skullcrossbones.pngSome are toxic!!Skullcrossbones.png
  • Never leave the laser cutter operating unattended for any reason! EVER! This poses a very real fire hazard and should be monitored at all times.

File:WarningLaser.png

References