Full Spectrum Laser Cutter

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Full Spectrum Laser Cutter

Current Status

This tool is no longer available for use. It has been supplanted by the new Thunder Laser

What is a laser cutter?

A CNC laser cutter is a computer controlled tool for engraving and cutting. It uses a high-powered laser to burn through material, leaving a very crisp cut.

Materials

Please see the list of Laser Cutter Materials for materials that are not allowed to be cut on the machine.

Laser Capabilities

  • 120 Watt CO2 Laser
  • 36" x 24" work area
  • Can cut up to 0.75" thick materials
  • Laser mechanical resolution is 0.001"
  • Laser spot size is approximately 0.001 to 0.005"
  • Works with most Windows software, show up like a printer
  • Best vector file formats are SVG, EPS but will read just about all file formats
  • Best bitmap format is 1 bit BMP at 250, 500 or 1000 DPI
  • Printer driver supports the following page sizes:
    • Tabloid: 11"x17"
    • A3: 11.69x16.535
    • CSHEET: 17x22
    • DSHEET: 22x34
    • ESHEET: 34x44

Who can use the laser?

Dallas Makerspace members that have been through the training class.

Laser Usage Fee

To allow for purchase of consumables and upgrades, there is a $1 per 5 minutes usage fee (rounded up, so 5:01 minutes = 10 minutes of usage).

Training Materials

The laser training materials can be found here:

(NOTE: Do NOT attempt to troubleshoot the laser - unless you are an authorized laser maintainer. If there is a problem, open a ticket (https://dallasmakerspace.org/helpdesk). Thanks!)

Laser Committee

Want more information? Want to help others learn? Join the Laser Committee.

Laser Classes

Laser classes are held at the space on a as needed basis. Email the laser committee or mailing list to sign up for the next class.

Member Submitted Hints and Tips

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