【Laser Processing Application】Acrylic Teaching Demonstration: Laser Control Made Easy!
Since 3DMart added more equipment, many customers have shown interest in laser processing. This time, we will answer the most common questions from our users: How can laser processing distinguish between "images" and "cut lines" simultaneously? Can charring be avoided on the edges of the processed material?
As the assistant needs to arrange shipments every day, we decided to make a doorplate so that the delivery drivers can easily know whether they need to collect goods today. Following the wooden doorplate from last time (further reading: "Living Hinge Structure" with Laser Cutting, Wooden Book Covers are Super Flexible!), which was also popular with other carriers, this time we will use an acrylic doorplate for our teaching demonstration:
First, you can use AI (Adobe Illustrator) software to design your favorite patterns or download open-source images. After saving them as a PDF, import them into "RetinaEngrave v3.0", the professional software for MUSE. This software doesn't require downloading; simply enter the IP address from the MUSE control panel into your browser to open it automatically, then insert your PDF file.
On the left side of the operation screen, you'll see a folder containing the automatically computed results of the image file. Currently, there are two files in the folder: the top icon represents "cut lines," and the bottom one represents "images."
If you look at the "cut lines" part separately, you'll see the outermost edge of the doorplate we're making, which is where the outer frame will be cut and separated. The right-hand column allows you to adjust speed, power, and number of passes. Since this is for cutting, the values are usually set to 100% by default.
The image section covers the entire bear and text, and there are more changeable items on the right side, which are as follows:
．Resolution: Up to 1000 dpi, this time 250 x 250 dpi.
．Negative Extreme: Similar to negative effects and contrast functions. Other than photo to engraving, it's generally set to default values.
Please note that the power settings for "image" engraving and the "cut lines" mentioned earlier are separate. Be sure to confirm before pressing start! The order of files on the left can be adjusted by dragging. This tells the MUSE laser processing machine our desired production sequence, for example, this time we cut the border first and then engrave the image. After pressing start, the laser head will automatically execute! The red bright spot is where the beam is emitted. This engraving took about 15 minutes, and we added an extra circle to the edge cut line.
After laser cutting, a gentle push allows for perfect separation! If you want to avoid charring on the wood when cutting or engraving, or if you're concerned about deformation when using acrylic plastic materials, you can use a low laser power and increase the number of passes.
The finished acrylic product from laser cutting looks very delicate. The control interface is convenient, and the actual test percentages are very accurate, which can overcome common issues in general laser processing. The side edges also show a smooth cut surface rather than a foggy white effect, and upon closer inspection, the engraved pattern can even be reflected.
Has this sharing made you understand laser processing better? Feel free to leave a comment on our Facebook page or send us a private message with your thoughts. This will help us share more new information that you're interested in. Do you have similar needs? Visit our shop now to learn more about the features of the MUSE laser processing machine, or we also offer professional custom manufacturing and 3D printing services.
Follow our fan page so you don't miss any updates: https://www.facebook.com/3dmart.com.tw/