So just got the I.R module for mt xtool. Was doing a test run on some of metal that was sent for practice. And it was only engraving in white. Is there a setting on xtool. Creative space or in light burn.some of the video’s I’ve seen it there results etched in black.any help would be greatly appreciated
Infrared 1064nm acts on materials in a very different way than 445 (blue) diode
On plastics it will oxidize in WHITE
is all to do with settings of speed/power + Material combo, not a special setting that would make it engrave black
What materials are you trying to engrave?
I used the aluminum that came with the kit,so guess i just need to back off on the power and speed.
Oh for sure
You need to run a power test on each amterial
If you have any mental references rom 445nm … they are really not transferable for IR
right now i’m using the xtool creative space program, i’ve slowed the speed and power down and same issue. So still need to adjust something some where just not sure what
You haven’t given us any real information to help you.
Are you just trying to get a black engraving?
What is the material? We can’t tell what xTool sent you, what kind of metal is it?
These can’t really engrave metal for any practical purpose, I’m assuming you want to oxidize the surface to get a black result.
If xTool supplies settings then that a good starting point. Using what they have give you and the materials test can help you decide on proper settings to accomplish your desired results.
The type of material and it’s thickness are important. Since it was supplied by the vendor, I’d think they’d give you some kind of starting place.
With my fiber, I seem to get a wider range of results by varying the interval.
Photos are very helpful…
Just this sample sheet of aluminum. I did do some more research, and one video suggested that the focusing arm for the 1064nm i.r laser isn’t true. That you need to be 20mm from the surface you’re engraving
Did a test run on my wrench and it came out black. So I’m guessing aluminum is going to turn out white and other metal’s black. This is all still a learning curve for me
Hi.
That was the case on mine, purchased ~14 months ago, some recent ones have been reported to be correct.
If You have focused Yours with the arm, it’s most likely close enough.
Because if it isn’t, the xTool IR head with its 2W optical power won’t make a scratch on aluminium oxide layer.
Or pretty much anything else either.
Even 0.1mm off will unfortunately make a world of difference.
It’s always best to do a ramp test rather than rely on focusing arms or fixed figures.
There’s a lot of variables in the manufacturing process, so there’s bound to be differences between modules.
With such a low power, we’re pretty much only manipulating the oxide layer forming on top of the metal, so the oxide layer determines the colour when marking on bare metal.
So in the case of the ratchet spanner it’s most likely chromium You’re marking.
Or nickel under the protective chrome layer.
Regards,
Sam
