I just installed Cloudray’s Ultimate Air Assist on my Redsail M900. I planned on having just slightly positive pressure at the nozzle all the time (while engraving, etc) and significant pressure (30psi or so) while cutting.
I’m using an external compressor with air to the laser regulated down to 35 PSI. The electronics of the UAA seems to be working. The solenoid kicks on and off allowing “high” airflow, the manual override switch works to toggle between “low” and “high” air pressure, etc.
My issue is that I cannot dial the “low” air pressure down enough. Even with the needle valve adjusted all the way in, I’m still getting FAR too much air pressure. My needle has a “B” engraved on the end of it. I’ve confirmed air plumbing is correct, and again the electronics side of it seems to be working fine. I just cannot get the
“low” side of the air pressure dialed down. I’m curious if anyone has any suggestions.
Might be a faulty needle valve. I have one in my junk box that won’t shut off completely. I can get it down to about 5lpm with 30psi inlet pressure. I usually run my purge (low) air at around 3lpm. A new needle valve solved it for me.
Full disclosure, my air setup is DIY but works basically the same as the cloud ray kit. Just different parts cobbled together by me.
This may be what you need .
I have a compressor with high pressure and a small , low pressure aquarium pump which is connected and switched by air assist output.
As you have found, just a small amount of flow to keep the lens clean is a must.
Other times when cutting a lot of air helps to keep the cut clean and blow out the fire.
I tried using pure oxygen …its interesting if a bit dangerous.
Its flow rate rather than pressure that is most relevant .
Another thing you may find important is to have a 8 lite or 10 liter plastic bottle with in and out air tight connections which will smooth out the air flow that is often pulsing in an undesirable way .
Here’s another one you might want to look at: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WPKYLWW
I’m using these on both of my lasers. I have them adjusted to 15Lpm, and that seems to work out well for me. Just my 2 cents.
Thanks for the information. I’ve ordered a flow meters and I’ll plumb it into my system. Instead of ordering a replacement needle style flow restrictor, I think I’m just going to put a more common ball/tee style valve in it’s place and call it good. The ball / tee will be more difficult for fine-tuning, but essentially this will be a a one and done deal. Once I find the proper flow rate with the flow meter, I’ll just leave the valve alone. It’ll be my fixed “low flow” meter.
