【Laser Processing Application】Acrylic Teaching Demonstration: Laser Control Made Easy!
Since 3DMART added more equipment, many customers have shown great interest in laser processing. This time, we'll answer the most common questions we receive from users: How can laser processing differentiate between "images" and "cutting lines" simultaneously? Can charring be avoided on the edges of processed materials?
As the assistant has to arrange shipments every day, we decided to make a signboard so the delivery driver can easily tell if there are packages to pick up today. Following the previous wooden signboard (Related reading: "Living Hinge" with Laser Cutting: Flexible Wooden Book Covers!), which was also well-received by other shipping companies, this time we'll use an acrylic signboard for our teaching demonstration:
First, you can use AI (Adobe Illustrator) software to create your desired pattern or download an open-source image. Save it as a PDF and then import it into "RetinaEngrave v3.0," the professional software for MUSE. This software doesn't require downloading; simply enter the IP address from the MUSE control panel into your browser, and it will automatically open, allowing you to import the PDF file.
On the left side of the operation screen, you can see a folder containing the automatically calculated results for this image file. Currently, there are two files in the folder: the icon above represents "cutting lines," and the one below represents "images."
If we look solely at the "cutting line" portion, it shows the outermost edge of the signboard we're making, which is where the outer frame will be cut and separated. The column on the right allows adjustment of speed, power, and number of passes. Since this is for cutting through, the values are usually set to 100% by default.
The image section includes the entire bear and text. There are more customizable items on the right, as follows:
．Resolution: Up to 1000 dpi, for this project, we used 250 x 250 dpi.
．Negative Threshold: Similar to negative effects and contrast functions. Other than photo engraving, it's generally kept at default values.
Note that the power settings for "image" engraving and the "cutting lines" are separate, so be sure to check them before pressing start! The order of files on the left can be adjusted by dragging, which tells the MUSE laser processing machine our desired production sequence. For example, this time we'll cut the border first, then engrave the image. After pressing start, the laser head will automatically execute! The red bright spot is where the beam is emitted. This engraving took about 15 minutes, and we added an extra pass for the edge cutting line.
After laser cutting, a gentle push immediately separates it perfectly! If you want to avoid charring on the wood during cutting or engraving, or if you're concerned about deformation when using acrylic plastic materials, you can use a low laser power and increase the number of passes.
The finished acrylic product from laser cutting looks very refined. Since the control interface is very convenient and the actual measured percentages are accurate, it can overcome common issues with general laser processing. The side edges also show smooth cuts instead of a frosted white effect, and a closer look even reveals reflections of the engraved pattern.
Did this sharing help you understand laser processing better? Feel free to leave comments on our Facebook page or message us with your thoughts; it helps us share more new information you'd like to know. Do you have similar needs? Visit our store now to learn more about the features of the MUSE laser processing machine, or we also offer professional custom manufacturing and 3D printing services.
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