Choosing the Right Laser Power--Glass vs. Crystal

The power requirements for glass and crystal differ significantly.By comparing the characteristics of the two materials and analyzing the key factors in selecting the laser power, they provided practical parameter recommendations to help users avoid problems with the material cracking or with poor engraving results, so as to optimize the processing efficiency and the quality of the finished product.

Why is the choice of laser power so important?

Whether it is carving or cutting, the power of the laser directly affects the results of processing the material.Too much power can cause the material to burn or crack, while insufficient power may leave the mark unclear.This is especially true of fragile materials like glass and crystal, which are highly sensitive to heat. Choosing the right power is the key to success or failure.

Characteristics of laser glass processing

The material properties of the material and the power of the laser are important.

Glass, a non-crystal material, has poor thermal conductivity, which makes it easy for heat to build up in local areas.If the power of the laser is too high, a sudden rise in temperature causes stress to build up in the glass, which can result in rough edges or even cause the glass to shatter.Generally speaking, the first step is to test with a low power (such as 30-50 watts) and gradually adjust to a state of clear coloring without over-burning.

Points to Consider in Practical Application

If the glass is thicker than 5 mm, the laser must be set to pulse mode, to reduce the thermal impact.At this point the power can be appropriately increased (to about 80-100 watts), but the speed of the laser head must be controlled to prevent heat buildup.From my own experience, the effect of using water to cool the machine is more obvious than just adjusting the parameters.

What should the laser parameters for the quartz be?

The special nature of quartz requires a certain amount of power.

As a crystalline material, quartz has a more uniform internal structure, but it is more difficult to control its hardness and melting point.If you use too much power when carving crystal, the surface can become cloudy, and lose its transparency. If you use too little power, the effect will be two-dimensional.For beginners, a lower power setting (40-60 watts) with high frequency short pulses will preserve the clarity of the crystal.

The "safe zone" for cutting crystal.

Cutting crystal requires a higher power level (usually 100-120 watts) but the focus of the light beam must be strictly controlled.If the focus is off by just 1 millimeter, the cut will be uneven.First, do a cross-cut test on a piece of scrap to find the smoothest cut. Then use that combination of power and speed on the actual work.

Glass vs. Crystal: Parameters and a Caveat

Key parameters.

(See table.)

Answers to common problems.

Cracks on the edge of the core: reduce power output by 10 % and add auxiliary cooling.

If the carving turns black, switch to high frequency and low power.

Cutting is uneven: Check the cleanliness of the lens and the focus.

Remember, the actual power output of each device may vary, so the parameters are only a starting point for reference.It is suggested that a small area test be performed each time the material is changed.

A suggestion based on actual experience.

Don't rely completely on the standard parameters in the equipment manual! Humidity and the level of impurities in the materials will affect the results.When confronted with new materials, they can use the "power gradient test method": they divide a piece of material into different zones, and use different power levels to engrave simple patterns. After comparing the results with the naked eye, they can select the best value.Although this method takes more time, it greatly reduces the costs of trial and error.