Lasering through sanding paper

[ingesep (Inge)]

Hi!

I am looking for some advice and shared experiences regarding lasering sanding paper with a CO₂ laser. We 3D print our own vacuum cups and we have to use our own customized sandpaper for that type of size.

we’re running an 80W CO₂ laser machine with air assist and extraction system, and when we tried cutting sanding paper I experienced:

• visible sparks
• small flames during cutting
• strong burning smell

I stopped the job because of the fire risk and concerns about damaging the optics.

Before I completely rule it out, I am curious:

• Has anyone here successfully cut or engraved sanding paper with a CO₂ laser?

• If so, what power/speed/air assist settings did you use?

• Did you encounter sparks or flare-ups?

• Are there specific types of sanding paper (grit type, backing material, brand) that behave better?

• Or is this generally considered a material to avoid entirely?

We understand sanding paper contains adhesives and abrasive minerals, so I am wondering if the sparking is simply inherent to the material and not something that can be tuned out with settings.

Any advice, safety tips, or alternative approaches would be appreciated.

[bernd.dk (Bernd)]

@ingesep

• visible sparks
• small flames during cutting
• strong burning smell

For thicker types they are also here, no problem for me. I cut the back with the least power and as quickly as possible.
No flames here, no odors or I don’t notice it because of the extraction.

But - I only run small series, no production.

@ingesep

I stopped the job because of the fire risk and concerns about damaging the optics.

I don’t know your machine, but it is very very unlikely that a spark could hit my lens, 50 mm into the nozzle with an inlet/outlet hole of 1-2mm and a reasonably strong airflow coming from inside.

@ingesep

We understand sanding paper contains adhesives and abrasive minerals, so I am wondering if the sparking is simply inherent to the material and not something that can be tuned out with settings.

Any advice, safety tips, or alternative approaches would be appreciated.

In my opinion, it is no different than MDF, formaldehyde glue in plywood or acrylic, with good extraction and possible filter, these materials are no problem for a CO2 laser - here at my place.