There is no question that wood is the most popular material to use with a laser engraver. While this is true, there are some tips and information that needs to be known and followed to ensure a project is successful. Keep in mind that finding the right laser is the first step in this process and it is a good idea to learn more about boss laser to find out if this is the right type of machine for the job. Beyond finding the right machine, some other considerations to keep in mind when using a laser cutter or engraver on wood can be found here.
Contrast and Depth of the Engraving and Wood
When using a laser engraver on wood, two of the most important factors include depth and contrast. If a user increases the power levels, it will also increase the contrast and depth. Something that is unique to wood is that it may discolor if a laser is used, and this is one of the main reasons that wood is the most popular option for laser engraving.
While this is true, it is also important to note that wood requires a lot of power from the laser to engrave it. As a result, most wood will require the laser power to be at or close to 100%. Even though this is the case, most people find wood extremely easy to work with. Also, it is possible to create beautiful designs with just 300 DPI; however, for even better results, set the engraver for a 600 DPI engraving.
Tips for Using a Laser to Cut Wood
Howe effective the laser engraving will be when it comes to cutting through the wood is dependent on the thickness of the wood. Also, the thickness impacts the wattage that should be used. For example, if someone is cutting through just ¼ inch of wood, it requires a 25-watt engraver. However, for ½ inch of wood, it is necessary to have a 100-watt laser.
The good news is that there are some techniques that can help to enhance the effectiveness of the laser cutter on wood. For example, it is possible to use a vector grid to raise the wood up from the engraving table. This helps to reduce the potential of the back of the wood-burning. Also, this additional space provides ventilation, which means the fumes and smoke need to be removed from behind the engraving cabinet. With some types of wood, using masking tape before using a laser cutter can result in residue buildup on the wood’s surface.
A word of caution – do not leave anything unattended when the laser cutter is moving. This can create a serious safety hazard.
When it comes to using a laser cutter for wood, there are more than a few considerations to make. Keep the tips and information here in mind to achieve the desired results for the project. This will help ensure the desired results are achieved and that no serious problems are experienced during the cutting process.