Laser
cutting and engraving are great options if you want to produce something other
than 3D-printed parts or merely increase the range of materials you work with.
It doesn't need much experience and permits dealing with materials other than
plastic.
The
fact that this technology may be easily retrofitted from a 3D printer may be
its best feature. Laser diode modules can be as compact as hot-end assemblies,
and the motion system of 3D printers considerably exceeds the specifications
for laser cutting.
Turning
a 3D printer into a laser cutter and engraver is a big decision. This post will
examine general laser technology before moving on to the critical stages of
modifying your 3D printer laserengraver.
Laser 101
By
vaporizing the material, a laser beam can remove it selectively along a
predetermined route, a technique known as laser cutting. The engraving process
is essentially the same, except rather than removing material, it marks the
surface, changing it through oxidation.
CO2
and diode lasers are the two most common laser technologies utilized for
desktop manufacture. CO2 lasers are widely employed in industrial applications
because they have sufficient power to cut through most materials, including
some metals.
Although
there are variations, the steps involved in turning a 3D printer into a laser
machine are usually the same. First, we must select the laser module that best
meets our needs (functionality and price, for example). Then, we must determine
how to modify it for the physical interface and electronics of the printer.
·
The laser module
The
range of laser power is always between 1 and 10 W. While some white-label
lasers you find online are advertised as having 30 or 40 watts of power, that
is undoubtedly not their optical output power.
Which
materials may be etched and if it can cut things like wood will depend on the
power (and how thick). Make sure to verify the list of materials that can be
engraved and cut with a laser provided by the manufacturer.
·
Compatibility & Wiring
Most
laser modules can be plugged directly into the control board of the 3D printer.
A 3D printer's part-cooling fan needs a variable-power output to manage its
speed, and this connection can also power and regulate the laser.
Some
lasers need a specific 12 V power source. Typically, this is accomplished via a
separate driver board, powered either by the printer’s PSU or an external power
source. A fan port connection to the printer is also necessary for this
arrangement.
·
Installation
The
only significant hardware modification during this conversion process is
possibly mounting and installing the laser module. Even though specific lasers
have unique brackets, an adaption will always be needed.
Visit
our Snapmaker stores and get quality 3D printer supplies to help you with your printing.
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