[3-in-1] Snapmaker Artisan Review — Laser Cutting and Engraving Functions

 
Following our previous article: Snapmaker Artisan Review — 3D Printing Function, this time we will introduce the Artisan's laser cutting and engraving functions. As in the previous article, this review was conducted by All3DP and Tom's Hardware, but this time, 3DPrinting.com also joined in to test the new Artisan - Premium (40W Laser Module). Let's explore the results below!

Previous Articles
1. 3D Printing
2. Unboxing
3. CNC Machining

 

 

Installing the laser module is simple, but requires careful attention to detail. The module must be securely connected to the machine's tool head mount, and the work surface must be precisely leveled for optimal results. Calibrating the laser focus is crucial for ensuring clean cuts and accurate engravings. This involves adjusting the module's Z-height to focus the beam on the material surface. Snapmaker provides calibration guides in the manual, simplifying the process, but it does require patience and precision.

The air assist pump is connected via a flexible hose, which directs airflow across the cutting surface to remove debris and reduce burn marks. The connection is also simple, but hose management is critical to avoid interference during operation. The enclosure's ventilation system effectively handles fumes, ensuring a safe and clean working environment.

 

10W Laser Cutting and Engraving Test

Snapmaker's 10W laser module for the Artisan combines two 5W laser diodes, offering significant power. It can cut and engrave various materials, from walnut to cardboard, such as: metals like copper, tin, and aluminum, and can also engrave glass, stone, leather, fabric, and dark acrylic. For cutting, it handles materials like wood, leather, fabric, and paper.
 

To use the laser tool head, you need to snap in the provided aluminum grid build surface, which comes with plastic screws for securing materials. You can also use tape. The Snapmaker Artisan laser has a power of 10 watts, capable of engraving and cutting thin materials.

The laser mode features some interesting safety functions. After installing the laser module, the Artisan will prompt you to close the enclosure door and enter a password. The initial password is printed on the bottom of the controller, but you can change it as you wish. This prevents unauthorized users (possibly children) from operating the laser if the Artisan is in a home studio. The tool head also comes with a camera that helps with focusing and positioning the engraving/cutting design at the desired location on the material. The laser needs to be calibrated each time the laser tool head is installed. To do this, place the provided test block on the build plate, and the Artisan will scan it using the camera attached to the tool head.
 

All3DP and Tom's Hardware used the provided test files from Snapmaker—a ruler and a square. It was observed that the spacing between the millimeter markings was inconsistent, and there was some scorching. This wasn't a particularly convincing test, but they saw better results in their own laser jobs. Of course, the convenience of setting up the Artisan laser with the included calibration plate is a plus.

The Artisan will triangulate the thickness of the test piece and make adjustments accordingly. The entire process is fully automatic. Next, you'll need to calibrate the camera with a white piece of paper at least 150 x 150 mm. The machine will lightly engrave a square on the paper to help with laser material placement. This model was very fast, taking only 11 minutes to complete.
 

You can also use a versatile base plate to hold materials. The camera assist mode allows you to align tasks relatively easily, and although you need to manually adjust the orientation of the camera preview, you can quickly get an approximate alignment for your work. Among all modules, the laser machine is the easiest to use and offers the quickest boost in productivity. You can select materials from a drop-down menu and quickly configure vector-based toolpaths or more time-consuming bitmap-based relief work.
 

 

NEW!! 40W Laser Cutting and Engraving Test
 

Using layers in Luban software, cutting and engraving can be done in the same job.
 

The 40-watt laser module impressively cuts 8mm thick wood in a single pass with smooth edges and minimal charring. When engraving, it consistently carves fine details with uniform depth across different materials. The air assist feature significantly improves cutting quality, especially for delicate materials like paper and fabric. However, achieving optimal results requires careful adjustment of speed and power settings based on material thickness and type.

3Dprinting.com was quite impressed by the simplicity of setting up engraving and cutting jobs for various types of wood using Luban software.
 

 

The 40W laser module, unlike the 10W, can cut 15mm linden plywood in one pass, and its cooling fan has also been upgraded!

Next up is the final function — the CNC test, see you in our next article!