Common Problems in Laser Engraving

Most of the problems that occur when laser engraving, such as blurry patterns or black edges, are related to focal length, power, and lens contamination.Through an analysis of common causes of problems, the manual provides practical solutions such as lens cleaning methods, parameter adjustment techniques, and so on, to help users quickly recover clear carving effects.

First, check these two basic steps.

Focusing is like framing a scene in a photograph.

Before carving, remember to adjust the laser head as if adjusting the focus of a camera.To test the focus, try to carve a cross with a piece of scrap material. If the lines are thin in the middle and thick at the ends, then the focus is not properly adjusted.For materials of different thickness, the focal length must be re-measured, and old hands always have a simple measuring device at hand.

Lenses are more delicate than mobile phone screens.

Clean the lenses and reflectors with a cotton swab and alcohol at least once a week.Remember to wipe in a circular motion, as you would clean a pair of glasses, and not in a back and forth motion.Once a customer complained that the edges of the lenses were turning black. It turned out that there was a tiny speck of glue on the lens, which was removed to solve the problem.

Parameters should be set according to local conditions.

It's not the case that the more power the better.

60 % is just right for acrylic, but you might need 80 % for hardwood.But if the power is too high, it's like using a high flame to fry an egg, and the edges will burn.I suggest that beginners first do a parameter ladder test: make five samples of the same pattern using different parameters.

Speed and passion must be balanced.

If you go too slowly, the image will be burnt; if too quickly, it will be blurred.For detailed work, the speed is reduced to less than 200mm / s.For simple graphics, speeds of up to 400mm / s are possible, but you need to lower the power to avoid overheating.

Everyday maintenance is often overlooked.

The tracks should be as smooth as the chain of a bicycle.

The X and Y axis rails should be lubricated once a month, especially in the humid south.One time when the studio returned to Nantian, the tracks had rusted and the carving machine shook, so all the lines carved out were wavy.

Don't be lazy about the exhaust system.

The smoke produced by the laser engraving process adheres to the surface of the material, and especially with dark materials, it can cause a halo to appear around the edges.Check the exhaust pipe for leaks, and replace the fan if it is not turning fast enough.After trying to install an activated charcoal filter on the exhaust pipe, the problem of the black edges was obviously improved.