Laser Cutting
The Laser Cutter training is a brief introduction to each Laser Cutter, safety considerations and basic operation. Projects have taken off from there, so I haven’t yet created any additional curriculum beyond the basics. If there is something that you think would be helpful, let me know!
The most import consideration when using a laser cutter is the risk of fire. Never leave the machine when it is actively cutting or etching because watching it cut is how we minimize the risk of fire.
2-Week Curriculum
| Week | |||
| 1 | Epilog Laser Cutting | Epilog Laser Etching/Engraving | Laser Cut Box Design |
| 2 | GCC Laser Cutting |
Approved Material
Because of toxicity and fire risks, NEVER attempt to cut any materials that are not explicitly listed here. There are plenty of consumer grade plastics that release toxic gas when burned with a laser. If you want to cut a material not on this list, consult with me first.
- Chipboard
- Chipboard is different from corrugated cardboard (think cardboard boxes). Corrugated cardboard is banned because the corrugations pose a real fire risk.
- Plywood (unvarnished)
- Acrylic
- Glass (more soon)
Approved Material Settings
We have TWO Laser Cutters, the Epilog and the GCC. They interpret the speed parameter differently. Use the speed that matches your machine.
| Material | Thickness | Speed (Epilog) | Speed (GCC) | Power |
| Chipboard | 1/32″ 0.03125 in. | 30% | 15% | 100% |
| Chipboard | 1/16″ 0.0625 in. | 15% | 7.4% | 100% |
| Chipboard | 1/8″ 0.125 in. | 10% | 5% | 100% |
| – | – | – | – | – |
| Plywood | 1/8″ 0.125 in. | 18% | 9% | 100% |
| Plywood | 3/16″ 0.1875 in. | 10% | 5% | 100% |
| Plywood | 1/4″ 0.250 in. | 5% | 4.4% | 100% |
| – | – | – | – | – |
| Acrylic | 3/32″ 0.09375 in. | 15% | 7.4% | 100% |
| Acrylic | 1/8″ 0.125 in. | 8% | 4% | 100% |
Maintenance
This section shouldn’t be run by students. It’s here if you’re interested, but if the Laser Cutters need maintenance (digital or physical) please let me know.