Neje 3 Max
G-Code controller
Latest version of Lightburn
Mac OS Monterey, Intel
Hi,
I’m cutting 3mm MDF and my question is about optimal speed and power settings.
As you can see in my image, there is some discolouration around the edges. I appreciate it will likely vary depending on the laser. However, do you have any advice on the best way to eliminate (or greatly reduce) the burn discolouration? I don’t know if it’s better to run the laser faster with multiple passes, or a single pass (which requires slower speed).
NB: I’m referring to the “picture” surface, not the 3mm cut edge.
Thanks,
All the compressed air you can get and the strongest extraction you can mount, as well as the necessary circulation under your items. Some use Honeycomp other swear on a flat steel plate … Some use punk spikes … Other paint tape.
When it is on the decent “pollution” as in your example, I will use some technical alcohol and a wool cloth and cleanse the product.
Thin masking tape works the best for my low powered laser (10w diode). To keep from getting smoldering burn, use multiple fast cuts.
3mm colored wood
8-12 passes
85-100% power
1000-1200 mm/m
I use standoffs to keep the wood supported above the laser floor. Added bonus, you can observe test cuts to monitor how many passes are required to complete a cut.
As mentioned, good air flow is essential. I have never used a honeycomb bed, but there is evidence that the honeycomb requires significantly more airflow.
I’ve been using canning jar rings to create the gap between the base board and the cutting material. I’m guessing this does a simlar job as the punk spikes or the standoffs.
I’ve run some additional tests with improved results. The masking tape seemed to work well. I ran the laser at 90% at 320mm/m with 2 passes. I’ll try again at faster speed as Jim suggests.
With regards to good airflow, I have air assist enabled (it’s probably not the best on this model). Can you suggest other airflow methods?
I have a jump house inflatable fan that I vent my enclosure to outside. It is much more quiet than the shop vac i was using, but not quite as much airflow.
The shop vac could pull cut off scraps down the 10 foot hose, but it was so loud that I had to wear ear protection while working and forget talking on the phone!
My enclosure is fairly air tight, I often leave a little gap on the zipper at the opposite corner from the hose attachment.
