Laser Cutter

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Details: THIS IS A DRAFT

About

MakeICT uses a Rabbit Laser LASER Cutter Model QX1290 with a workbed of approx. 3' x 4'.

A LASER cutter allows users to take designs created on a computer and quickly cut them out using many different materials.

Designs are made using Inkscape, an open-source vector graphics editor (other editors, such as Draftsight and Adobe Illustrator, can be used as well).

LASER cutting is a great way to rapidly prototype projects.

MakeICT's LASER cutting machine was built by Rabbit Laser.

• Suggested reading: Basics of Lasers and Laser Light

Classes

• Inkscape workshop - suggested
• LASER Cutter Basics Class

LASER use policy

• You must take the LASER Cutter Basics Class to be approved to use the LASER cutter
• You must be a member

LASER Cutter Specific Safety

LASER cutters pose a fire hazard. LASER cutters use a high intensity beam of LASER light that can produce extremely high temperatures as it comes into contact with the materials it is engraving, marking or cutting.

The LASER cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must only be operated by members who have received appropriate training and who take due care. The top things to always remember when using the LASER cutter are:

1. ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU ARE ON THE LIST OF TRAINED USERS
2. NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED
3. NEVER CUT MATERIALS THAT YOU DON'T KNOW ARE SAFE
4. NEVER OVERRIDE THE LASER CUTTER SAFETIES
5. KNOW WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT
   1. HIT the BIG RED button on the LASER control panel
   2. A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher is located next to the LASER cutter

Before starting the LASER cutter:

1. Check the cooling solution window in the back of the chiller before starting any project.

After starting the LASER cutter:

1. Before cutting make sure the air compressor and the fan motor are on.
2. Refer to the cutting manual for appropriate engraving and cutting Power and Speed settings for varied materials.
3. Beware of FLAMMABLE materials while using the machines.
4. Certain materials are NOT ALLOWED in the LASER cutter including any PVC material, reflective materials
   1. See the DO NOT USE THESE MATERIALS section

Materials for the LASER Cutter

See LASER Cutter Materials for the list of BAD and good materials to use in the LASER cutter

DO NOT USE THESE MATERIALS

• PVC
• VINYL
• CHLORINE BASED PRODUCTS
• see LASER Cutter Materials for the list of BAD and good materials to LASER cut
• List posted in LASER Cutter area

Process

1. . Prepare your design (we like inkscape)
2. . Prepare the LASER cutter
3. . Cut your design

If something goes wrong during your print

1. Hit the RED button

Maintenance

Weekly mirror and lens cleaning is required and performed by trained staff

Tips and resources

• The LASER cutter will generally not cut anything greater than 0.25” (6mm), anything thicker will require several passes.
• LaserCut v5.3 Download