Hello… I am new to laser engraving/cutting. I purchased a TTS 10 Pro with a Dewalle air assist. I was able to connect everything. However, my Z axis has to be about 18mm above the wood to cut, which is not enough room to get my air assist underneath. Is there another way to mount the air assist so that it does not have to be underneath?
Air assist serves two primary functions:
- assist in cutting by removing debris and suppressing fires
- protect smoke and debris from fouling the lens
Mounting the air assist at the nozzle allows for both of those. You can have an alternative mounting location that will likely lose the protective function.
You could mount a hollow tube or hollow needle adjacent to the nozzle or module. Typically you want the air source to be as close to the material as reasonable. Mounting the needle at an angle has the disadvantage of only aligning with the laser beam at a single convergence point. However, this may give you the advantage of higher air pressure and getting closer to the work surface.
Alternatively, consider modifying the equipment in a way that it would allow you to mount the air assist normally.
Did a little Googling and saw that TT offers an air assist option. Maybe you can find out how they do it. I did not see any images showing the airline to the laser, so I am wondering if it is a side mount arrangement.
I am curious what the purpose of the cube between the laser head and light guard serves. Their design (18mm focus) is definitely different from most (50mm focus)I have seen.
Thank you both for your assistance. Your responses were very informative. I was able to finally cut through with the air assist in the correct position, I just had to make a couple of extra passes. This is all knew to me, so it’s like learning a foreign language in some respects. Thank you so much for taking time out of your day (especially during the holiday season) to help me. Have a great holiday. 