monport 80W CO2 Laser Engraver and Cutter User Manual
- June 17, 2024
- monport
Table of Contents
YX460(80w)
Read Carefully Before Use Keep for Future Reference
PREFACE
Thank you for choosing our laser equipment.
Your CO₂ laser engraving machine is intended for personal and professional
use. When used in accordance with these instructions, it comprises a Class 1
laser system but some components remain EXTREMELY dangerous. Never disable the
preinstalled safety devices and always use your laser safely and responsibly.
Read this manual carefully before operation. It covers the details of correct
installation, adjustment, maintenance, and—most importantly—safe operation of
your new laser. It is intended to be used in conjunction with your engraving
software manual, as the software typically does not only provide image design
but also serves as an alternative interface for the laser settings and machine
controls. You and any other users of this device should thoroughly understand
BOTH manuals before attempting to operate the laser.
Keep both manuals for future reference and provide them to ANYONE who will
install, operate, maintain, or repair this machine. Both manuals should be
included if this device is given or sold to a third party.
If you have any questions after reading these manuals, please contact us and
our support department will address your concerns as soon as possible.
Introduction
1.1 General Information
This manual is the designated user guide for the installation, setup, safe
operation, and maintenance of your cabinet laser engraver. It is divided into
six chapters covering general information, safety instructions, installation
steps, operation instructions, maintenance procedures, and contact
information.
ALL personnel involved in the installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and
repair of this machine should read and understand this manual, particularly
its safety instructions. Some components are extremely high voltage and/or
produce powerful laser radiation. Substandard performance and longevity,
property damage, and personal injury may result from not knowing and following
these instructions.
Your laser engraver works by emitting a powerful laser beam from a glass tube
filled with excited carbon dioxide (CO₂), reflecting that beam off three
mirrors and through a focus lens, and using this focused light to etch designs
into certain substrates. The first mirror is fixed near the end of the laser
tube, the second mirror travels along the machine’s Y axis, and the third
mirror is attached to the laser head that travels along the X axis. Because
some dust from the engraving process settles on the mirrors, they require
frequent cleaning. Because they move during operation, they also require
periodic readjustment using their attached positioning screws to maintain the
proper laser path. A water cooling system—typically a pump or chiller—must be
used with this engraver to dissipate the heat produced by the laser tube.
Similarly, an exhaust system—typically either an external vent or a dedicated
air purifier—must be used to remove the dust and gases produced by the
engraving process.
With low intensity use, the provided laser tube has an average lifespan around
12000 hours before requiring replacement.
However, constantly running your laser above 70% of its maximum rated power
can significantly shorten its service life. It is recommended to use settings
from 10–70% of the maximum rated power to enjoy optimal performance and
longevity. Note that this is a high-voltage device and, as a safety
precaution, it is recommended to only touch its components with one hand at a
time during use.
Note that the active laser is invisible to the human eye. This device should
never be used while any cover is open to avoid potentially permanent injury.
Note also that the water cooling system and exhaust system are both absolutely
essential to the safe use of this device.
Never operate the engraver without both of these systems operating properly.
Water should always be kept clean and around room temperature, and the exhaust
system should always comply with all applicable laws and regulations for
workplace and environmental air quality.
1.2 Symbol Guide
The following symbols are used on this machine’s labeling or in this manual:
| These items present a risk of serious property damage or personal injury.
---|---
| These items address similarly serious concerns with regard to the laser
beam.
| These items address similarly serious concerns with regard to electrical
components.
| Protective eyewear should be worn by anyone around this machine during
operation.
| This product is sold in conformity with applicable EU regulations.
| This product contains electrical components that should not be disposed
of with regular garbage.
1.3 Designated Use
This machine is intended for use engraving signs and other consumer products
on applicable substrates. This laser can process a wide variety of materials
including wood and cork, paper and cardboard, most plastics, glass, cloth and
leather, and stone. It can also be used with some specially coated metals. Use
of this system for nondesignated purposes or materials is not permitted.
The system must be operated, maintained, and repaired by personnel familiar
with the field of use and the dangers of the machine and the material being
engraved including its reflectivity, conductivity, potential for creating
harmful or combustible fumes, etc.
Laser beams are dangerous. The manufacturer and/or seller bear(s) no
responsibility and assume(s) no liability for any improper use of this device
or for any damage or injury arising from such use. The operator is obliged to
use this cabinet laser engraver only in accordance with its designated use,
the other instructions in its manuals, and all applicable local and national
laws and regulations.
1.4 Technical Specifications
Model | YX460(80W) |
---|---|
Laser Tube | Diameter |
Length | 49.21 in.(1250 mm) |
Focus Lens | Diameter |
Thickness | 0.08 in.(2 mm) |
Focal Length | 2 in.(50.8 mm) |
Mirror | Diameter |
Thickness | 0.12 in.( 3 mm) |
Input Power | 110-120V 60Hz |
Power Consumption | 1100 W |
Rated Power | 80 W |
Expected Service Life
at <40% / 40-70% / >70% Power| 12000/10000/8000 hr.
Laser Wavelength| 10640 nm
Processing Area| 27.5×19.7 in.(700×500 mm)
Front/Back Pass-Through Size| 32.3×3.9 in.(835x 95 mm)
Side Pass-Through Size| 20.5×0.8 in.(520x 20 mm)
Workbed Blades| 19
Max. Processing Speed| 31.5 ips (800 mm/s)
Max. Acceleration| X-Axis| 315 ips2(8000 mm/s2)
Y-Axis| 78.8 ips2(2000 mm/s’)
Min. Engraving Depth| 0.0004 in.(0.01 mm)
Max. Engraving Depth| 0.4 in.(10 mm)
Min. Letter Size| 0.04×0.04 in.( lx1 mm)
Required Operating
Environment| Max. Humidity| 70%
Temp. Range| 40-95°F (5-35°C)
Provided Ope sting Software| RDWorks
Supported Operating Software| LightBurn,CorelLaser
Supported Image Formats| .ai, .bmp, .dxf..gif, .hpgl, jpeg..pdf, .plt,
.png..rd.
.svg, .tiff, .tga
Graphic Operating Modes| Raster, Vector, Combined
Certification| CE,FDA
1.5 Components
Main Parts
A. Cover —The cover provides access to the main bay for placing and
retrieving materials, as well as fixing the laser path alignment and other
maintenance. Power to the laser is automatically cut when the cover is opened.
B. Viewing Window— The polycarbonate window is shielded to protect you
and others from the laser and its reflection, allowing monitoring of the
engraving process. However, you should never stare continuously at the laser
during operation, even through the window.
C. Left Access Door —This door provides access to the main bay for work
on the mirrors and Y-axis rail.
D. Exhaust Fan —This fan pulls out gases and airborne debris from the
worktable, sending it through your vent to a window or air purifier.
E. Caster Wheels —The front wheels include locks to hold the engraver in
place.
F. Feet —These feet can be rotated down to help anchor the machine in
place.
G. Workbed— The workbed can be adjusted in height to fit thinner and
thicker materials, as well as adjusted between the aluminum and honeycomb
platforms.
H. Laser Head— The laser head holds the 3rd mirror, the focus lens, the
red dot guidance, and the air assist outlet.
I. X-Axis Rail— The X-axis rail holds the 2nd mirror and LED lighting. It
also supports the movement of the laser head left and right across the
workbed.
J. Y-Axis Rail —The Y-axis rail supports the movement of the X-axis rail
up and down the workbed.
L. Front & Back Pass-Through Doors—These doors open to allow larger
pieces of material to be fed through the workbed. Addi-tional care must be
taken to avoid seeing or suffering exposure to the laser beam and its
reflection.
M. Front Access Door —This door provides access to the area below the
workbed for easy cleanup.
N. Emergency Stop —This button immediately cuts all power to the laser
tube in the event of an emergency.
O. Control Panel —The control panel offers hands-on control of the
engraving process, including manual movement of the laser head and firing of
the laser.
P. Laser Key —This key controls the power supply to your laser tube. Turn
it on after the control system power and turn it off before.
Q. Control System Power— This button turns on your engraver’s control
system, exhaust fan, LED lighting, and cabinet sockets. Turn it on before the
laser key and turn it off after.
S. Connection Inputs— This panel includes the machine’s ports for its
USB, computer, and Ethernet connections.
T. Bottom Right Access Door— This door provides access to the mainboard,
motor drivers, and power supplies. Its vents and cooling fan keep components
from overheating during prolonged use and should not be obstructed.
U. Top Rear Access Door— This door opens to the laser bay, holding the
laser tube and its connections.
V. Laser Tube— This long glass tube is filled with helium, nitrogen, and
CO₂ gas and water cooled to safely produce your engraving laser. Its
connection to the laser power supply is extremely high voltage and extremely
dangerous.
W. Water Pump Power Socket— These sockets connect to your main power
supply, ground the machine, and provide an additional socket for your water
pump if needed. It is recommended, however, to use a separate plug on a
different fuse for your water cooling system.
X. Power Supply Socket
Y. Bottom RearAccess Door— This door provides access to the air pump for
easier maintenance.
Z. Water Ports— These ports connect to your water pump or chiller to keep
your laser tube cool and stable. Laser Path
A. Laser Tube— This CO₂-filled glass tube is mounted on brackets and
immobile. Its connection to the laser power supply is extremely high voltage
and extremely dangerous.
B. 1st Mirror —This adjustable-angle mirror is fixed in place to transfer
the engraving laser from the tube to the 2nd mirror.
C. 2nd Mirror— This adjustable-angle mirror moves with the X-axis rail to
allow the laser beam to travel along the Y axis.
D. 3rd Mirror— This adjustable-angle mirror moves with the laser head to
allow the laser beam to travel along the X axis.
E. Focus Lens— This lens directs and focuses the laser to the material.
F. Workbed —The bare workbed can be adjusted in height or fitted with
aluminum or honeycomb tables for different projects. Laser Head
A. X-Axis Rail— This rail moves along the Y axis, with its movement
controlled by limit switches.
B. Air Assist— This device blows pressurized air to kill sparks and blow
away gas and debris as you engrave.
C. 3rd Mirror —This adjustable-angle mirror transfers the laser from the
2nd mirror to the focus lens.
D. Red Dot Pointer— This device helps you see the exact position of the
invisible engraving laser.
E. Focus Lens— This 18mm lens directs and focuses the laser beam to its
point of contact with the engraving material.
F. Laser— The engraving laser itself is invisible but highly dangerous.
Avoid any direct exposure to your skin or eyes.
G. Workbed— Use the provided acrylic tool to get the perfect focus for
any thickness of material. Connection Inputs
A. USB Port— This port allows you to load and save designs and parameters
directly onto the engraver.
B. USB Line Port —This port connects to your control computer and its
engraving software using any of its USB ports.
C. Ethernet Port— This port connects to your control computer and its
software either directly or via the internet. Bottom Right Access Door
A. Mainboard —This circuit board controls the engraving process,
responding to commands from your engraving software or the machine’s control
panel.
B. X-Axis Driver —This device moves the laser head along the X rail.
C. Y-Axis Driver —This device moves the X rail along the Y rail.
D. Control Power Supply —This device powers the machine’s control panel.
E. Alternating Current Contactor —This device controls the flow of
electricity to a load by making and breaking electrical connections between
the load and the power source.
F. Laser Power Supply —This device transforms standard electricity into
the extremely high voltage charge necessary for the laser tube. Laser Power
Supply
A. High-Voltage Wire —This line is connected to the laser tube’s anode or
positive end, providing high-voltage current to power the laser.
B. Mounting Holes —These standard slots allow simple installation and
removal.
C. Digital Display —This display provides the real-time current to the
laser tube in milliamps and notification of any problems with the laser or
water systems.
D. Laser Indicator Light— This light shows when current is being sent to
the laser tube.
E. Main Power Terminal— This terminal block holds the power supply’s
connection to the engraver’s grounding (FG) and to the main power supply (AC).
F. Test Button —This button is used to attempt to test fire the laser
when troubleshooting problems. If the laser fires successfully, the problem
will usually be with the control panel or its connections. G. Connection
Terminal —This terminal block holds the connections to the high (H) and low
level output (L), the water protection switch (P), another ground (G), and two
laser signal controls (IN & 5V).
H. Water Indicator Light— When connected, this light shows the water
cooling system is operating.
I. Laser Signal Indicator Light —This light shows the laser tube is
operating.
J. Ethernet Port— This port allows you to connect the laser power supply
to an external ammeter.
Safety Information
2.1 Disclaimer
Your engraver may differ somewhat from those shown in this manual due to
options, updates, etc. Please contact us if your engraving machine came with
an outdated manual or if you have any other questions.
2.2 General Safety Instructions
• Your device should come with instruction labels in the following locations:
If any of these labels is missing, illegible, or becomes damaged, it must be
replaced.
- Use this laser engraving device only in accordance with all applicable local and national laws and regulations.
- Use this device only in accordance with this instruction manual and the manual for the engraving software included with it. Only allow this device to be installed, operated, maintained, repaired, etc. by others who have also read and understood both manuals. Ensure that this manual and the software manual are both included with this device if it is ever given or sold to a third party.
- DO NOT operate continuously for more than 5½ hours. Stop for at least 30 minutes between uses.
- DO NOT leave this device unattended during operation. Observe the device throughout operation and, if anything seems to be operating strangely, immediately cut off ALL power to the machine and contact either our customer service or your dedicated repair service. Similarly, ensure the device is FULLY turned off (including by means of the emergency stop switch) after each use.
- DO NOT allow minors, untrained personnel, or personnel suffering from physical or mental impairment that would affect their ability to follow this manual and the software manual to install, operate, maintain, or repair this device.
- Any untrained personnel who might be near the device while it is in operation MUST be informed that it is dangerous and fully instructed on how to avoid injury during its use.
- Always keep a fire extinguisher, water hose, or other flame retardant system nearby in case of accidents. Ensure that the local fire department’s phone number is clearly displayed nearby. In the case of a fire, cut electrical power before dousing the flame. Familiarize yourself with the correct range for your extinguisher before use. Take care not to use the extinguisher too close to the flame, as its high pressure can produce blowback.
2.3 Laser Safety Instructions
When used as instructed, this machine comprises a Class 1 laser system safe
for users and bystanders. However the invisible engraving laser, the laser
tube, and its electrical connections remain EXTREMELY dangerous. Used or
modified without care, they can cause serious property damage and personal
injury including but not limited to the following:
- The laser will easily burn nearby combustible materials
- Some working materials may produce radiation or harmful gases during processing
- Direct exposure to the laser will cause bodily harm including serious burns and irreparable eye damage As such,
- DO NOT modify or disable this device’s provided safety features. Do not modify or disassemble the laser and do not use the laser if it has been modified or disassembled by anyone except trained and skilled professionals. Dangerous radiation exposure and other injury may result from the use of adjusted, modified, or otherwise incompatible equipment.
- NEVER leave any part of the cabinet open during operation except (when needed) the pass-through doors. Never interfere with the laser beam, do not place any part of your body in any part of the laser path during operation, and never attempt to view the laser directly. When using the pass-through doors or otherwise risking exposure to the laser beam, take measures to protect yourself from potentially reflected laser beams including the use of personal protective equipment such as protective eyewear specially designed to filter the specific wavelength of your engraver’s laser with an optical density (OD) of 5+.
- DO NOT stare or allow others to stare continuously at the laser beam during operation even when the cover is closed and/or wearing protective eyewear. Exercise caution with the red dot positioning light as well, as its direct beam is a Class 2 laser in its own right.
- ONLY use this engraver if its automatic shutoffs are working properly. When you first get this engraver and if you subsequently notice any problems, test them (see below) before undertaking any other work. Do not continue use if the shutoffs do not occur. Turn off the device and contact customer service or your repair service. Never disable these shutoffs.
- DO NOT ever under ANY circumstances use this laser engraver if the water cooling system is not working properly. Always activate the water cooling system and visually confirm that water is flowing through the entire system before turning on the laser tube. If using the provided water pump, ensure that it is placed in a tank full of cool or tepid distilled water. Do not use ice water or water that has become hotter than 100°F (38°C). For best results, keep it between 60–70°F (15–21°C). Replace heated water or add sealed bottles of frozen water to cool it, while never allowing the system to run without water or allowing the water to become colder than 50°F (10°C). Immediately stop use if the water cooling system malfunctions.
- DO NOT use generic coolant or antifreeze in your cooling water, as they may leave corrosive residues and solidify inside your hoses and piping, causing malfunctions and even explosions. Use custom laser-safe formulations or use and store your engraver in a climate-controlled area.
- DO NOT leave potentially combustible, flammable, explosive, or corrosive materials nearby where they could be exposed to the direct or reflected laser beam.
- DO NOT use or leave sensitive EMI equipment nearby. Ensure the area around the laser is free of strong electromagnetic interference during any use.
- ONLY use this machine for working the materials described in the Material Safety section of this manual. The laser settings and engraving process must be properly adjusted for specific materials.
- Ensure the area is kept free of other airborne pollutants, as these might pose a similar risk of reflection, combustion, etc.
2.4 Electrical Safety Instructions
- ONLY use this device with a compatible and stable power supply with less than 5% fluctuation in its voltage.
- DO NOT connect other devices to the same fuse, as the laser system will require its full amperage. Do not use with standard extension cords or power strips. Use only surge protectors rated over 2000J.
- ONLY turn on the power to this device when it is well grounded, either via a firm connection to a 3-prong outlet or via a dedicated grounding cable firmly connected to the proper slot on the cabinet. Do not use with an ungrounded 3 to 2 prong adapter. The device’s grounding should be checked regularly for any damage to the line or loose connections.
- The area around this laser engraving device should be kept dry, well ventilated, and environmentally controlled to keep the ambient temperature between 40–95°F (5–35°C). For best results, keep the temperature at 75°F (25°C) or below. The ambient humidity should not exceed 70%.
- Do not handle the water pump or the water in which it is submerged while the pump is attached to its power supply. Place it in water before connecting it to power and disconnect it from power before removing it.
- Adjustment, maintenance, and repair of the electrical components of this device must be done ONLY by trained and skilled professionals to avoid fires and other malfunctions, including potential radiation exposure from damage to the laser components. Because specialized techniques are required for testing the electrical components of this marking system, it is recommended such testing only be done by the manufacturer, seller, or repair service.
- nless otherwise specified, ONLY undertake adjustment, maintenance, and repair of the device when it is turned off, disconnected from its power supply, and fully cooled.
2.5 Material Safety Instructions
- Users of this laser engraving machine are responsible for confirming that materials to be processed can withstand the heat of the laser and will not produce any emissions or byproducts either harmful to people nearby or in violation of local or national laws or regulations. In particular, do not use this device to process polyvinyl chloride (PVC), teflon, or other halogen containing materials under any circumstances.
- Users of this laser engraver are responsible for ensuring that every person present during operation has sufficient PPE to avoid the injury from the emissions and byproducts of the materials being processed. In addition to the protective laser eyewear described above, this may require goggles, masks or respirators, gloves, and other protective outer clothing.
- DO NOT ever under any circumstances use this laser engraver if the exhaust system is not working properly. Always ensure that the exhaust fan can remove the dust and gas produced by the engraving process in accordance with all applicable local and national laws and regulations. Immediately stop use if the exhaust fan or vent pipe malfunctions. Periodically check the air assist intake filter to ensure it stays free of any dust or debris.
- Users must exercise special caution when working with conductive materials as buildup of their dust and ambient particles may damage electrical components, cause short circuits, or produce other effects including reflected laser radiation.
This machine can be safely used with the following materials:
Plastics
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
- Nylon (Polyamide, PA, etc.)
- Polyethylene (PE)
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE, PEHD, etc.)
- Biaxially-Oriented Polyethylene Terephthalate (BoPET, Mylar, Polyester, etc.)
- Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG, PET-G, etc.)
- Polyimide (PI, Kapton, etc.)
- Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA, Acrylic, Plexiglass, Lucite, etc.)
- Polyoxymethylene (POM, Acetal, Delrin, etc.)
- Polypropylene (PP, etc.)
- Styrene
Other
- Cardboard
- Ceramics, including Dishes, Tile, etc.
- Glass
- Leather
- Paper & Paperboard
- Rubber
- Stone, including Marble, Granite, etc.
- Textiles, including Cotton, Suede, Felt, Hemp, etc.
- Wood, including Cork, MDF, Plywood, Balsa, Birch, Cherry, Oak, Poplar, etc.
See §4.3 for the recommended parameters for the most commonly engraved
materials.
This machine CANNOT be used with the following materials or with any materials
which include them:
- Artificial Leather containing Hexavalent Chromium (Cr[VI]), due to its toxic fumes
- Astatine, due to its toxic fumes
- Beryllium Oxide, due to its toxic fumes
- Bromine, due to its toxic fumes
- Chlorine, including Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) and Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC, Vinyl, Cintra, etc.), due to its toxic fumes
- Fluorine, including Polytetrafluoroethylenes (Teflon, PTFE, etc.), due to its toxic fumes
- Iodine, due to its toxic fumes
- Metals, due to their conductivity and reflectivity
- Phenolic Resins, including various forms of Epoxy, due to their toxic fumes
- Polycarbonate (PC, Lexan, etc.), due to its toxic fumes
For all other materials, if you are unsure about its safety or laserability with this device, seek out its material safety data sheet (MSDS). Pay especial attention to information about safety, toxicity, corrosiveness, reflectivity, and reaction(s) to high heat. Alternatively, contact our support department for further guidance.
Installation
3.1 Installation Overview
A complete working system consists of the laser engraving cabinet, its vent, a
water tank with a pump, all applicable connection cables, and the laser and
access keys. The cabinet can use designs provided by the enclosed engraving
software by direct or internet connection with your computer; it can also
engrave designs loaded directly from a flash drive. Users can configure other
additional accessories (such as an industrial water chiller, fume extractor,
or rotary axis) to suit their needs.
Use only the hardware, wiring, and power sources that came with or are
compatible with this device.
Installing equipment that your device is not designed to work with can lead to
poor performance, shortened service time, increased maintenance costs,
property damage, and personal injury.
Please note the specific requirements of your system’s installation. Every
customer must understand these notes before installation to execute a proper
setup and achieve safe laser performance. If you have any installation
questions or problems, contact our technicians and customer support team.
Any auxiliary equipment must be adjusted to the base machine. Queries may be
directed to the dealer or manufacturer of such equipment.
3.2 Location Selection
Before you install your engraver, select an appropriate location for its use.
Be sure that it meets all of the requirements discussed in the Safety
Information above. The location should be stable, level, dry, and climate
controlled to ensure an ambient temperature of 40–95°F (5–35°C) and an ambient
humidity under 70%. In particular, the temperature and humidity together
should not be close to the dew point. It is also advisable to use a windowless
room or to use blinds and/or curtains to avoid exposure to the potential
additional heat of direct sunlight. The location should be free of dust and
other airborne pollutants and well ventilated enough to process any fumes
produced by the engraving process in accordance with all applicable laws and
regulations. Depending on the materials to be processed, this may require
construction of a dedicated ventilation system. It should be away from
children; combustible, flammable, explosive, or corrosive materials; and
sensitive EMI devices. The power cord should be plugged into a compatible and
stable power source via a grounded 3-prong outlet. No other item
should be drawing current from the same fuse. There should be firefighting
equipment nearby and the local fire department’s phone number should be
clearly displayed.
It is highly recommended to have an extra work table nearby in order to avoid
placing objects on or directly adjacent to the machine, which could become a
fire or laser hazard.
3.3 Unpacking Your Engraver
Your engraving machine arrives in a wooden crate with its accessories
(including this manual) packaged beside it. You should have placed the crate
in a spacious flat area for unpacking, ideally where you plan to operate the
machine permanently.
Step 1. Take out the accessories pack from the wooden crate. Check that you
have received all of the following: a power cord, a ground wire, USB and
Ethernet cables, a USB flash drive with engraving software included, a water
pump with its tank and piping, an exhaust pipe with a hose clamp, a set of hex
wrenches, a tube of silicone sealant, an acrylic focusing tool, keys, and this
manual.
Step 2. If you have not already done so, finish removing the crate from
around your engraver. Each foot is attached to the base of the crate with a
hex screw. Use a 7.8 mm hex wrench to remove them. Rotate the feet up, unlock
the wheels, and roll the machine into place. Step 3. Fix it in place by
pressing down on the brake pads on the 2 front wheels and rotate the feet down
to anchor them. If needed, suitable fasteners can also be used with the 0.2
inch (5 mm) holes to further secure your engraver.
Step 4. CAREFULLY remove the rest of the foam packaging material from
around the laser tube, the viewing window, and the rest of the machine. The
laser tube is a highly fragile object and should be handled delicately and as
little as possible.
Step 5. Inside the main bay, remove the nylon cable ties from the X axis
and the honeycomb table. Step 6. You may keep the packaging in case of
future return but, if you dispose of it or any accessories, be sure to do so
in compliance with applicable waste disposal regulations.
3.4 Electrical Grounding
This device employs a powerful laser. As discussed in the Safety Information
above, it is extremely high voltage and potentially dangerous, so users must
securely ground it to avoid the buildup of static electricity. Using a
standard 3-prong outlet will provide sufficient grounding. If you do not have
access to a 3-prong outlet, you MUST use the grounding cable and ensure its
proper connection. The far end of the cable should be securely connected to a
single metal rod driven at least 8 feet (2.5 m) deep or to two separate metal
rods driven at least 4 feet (1.2 m) deep into soil located at least 5 feet
(1.5 m) from the machine. The resistance along the line should be no greater
than 5Ω. Poor grounding WILL cause equipment failure and create a serious
electrical shock hazard. The manufacturer and/or seller bear(s) no
responsibility and assume(s) no liability for any damage, accidents, or
injuries caused by bad grounding connections.
3.5 Water Cooling Installation
The provided water pump is essential to your engraver’s performance and
longevity. When this laser works without a properly maintained cooling system,
its glass tube WILL explode from excess heat.
NEVER touch or adjust your engraver’s water supply while the pump is connected
to power.
To install your pump, fill a dedicated tank with at least 2 gallons (7.5 L) of
distilled water. Using deionized or tap water will gradually degrade the
quality of your engraver and may even cause dangerous mineral buildup in the
cooling system. NEVER use generic antifreeze for the same reason. Use custom
laser-safe formulations or store your engraver in a climate-controlled area.
Connect the two hoses that came with your engraver to the water inlet and
water outlet on the back of your engraver.
Attach the other end of the inlet tube directly to your pump and completely
submerge the pump in your water tank. Place the outlet tube into the tank in
such a way that the returning water flows into the tank without splashing or
other problems. Connect the water pump to its power supply. For best results,
use a power outlet on a separate fuse from the engraver itself. If no such
outlet is available, the pump can also be plugged into a dedicated socket
located on the side of the engraving cabinet. Once the pump is plugged in,
water should begin to run through your machine and back into your tank. ALWAYS
obtain visual confirmation that the water is flowing through the laser tube
before starting your laser. NEVER allow the water in the tank to become too
hot to cool the laser.
Install a thermal alarm or periodically check the water’s temperature during
prolonged use. If the water begins to reach 100°F (38°C), replace it with
cooler water. Either replace it in stages or turn off the laser during this
process: never allow the laser to operate without a constant flow of cooling
water. It is also possible to add sealed bottles of frozen water to your tank
to keep the water cool but never allow the water to become ice cold itself, as
this could shatter the heated glass CO₂ tube as well.
As an alternative to manually adjusting the water in your tank, you may also
use an industrial water chiller to supply temperature-controlled water to your
machine. Follow its separate manual and again, for best results, plug it into
a separate fuse from the engraver itself. Remember to connect the chiller’s
outlet port with the engraver’s inlet port and to connect the chiller’s inlet
with the engraver’s outlet. 3.6 Exhaust System
Install the provided exhaust pipe directly onto the fan. The pipe can be
expanded to a full length of about 5 feet (1.5 m). The other end should be
connected to a dedicated purifier or (if the fumes are not hazardous and meet
local and national air safety standards) placed out a window. NEVER operate
the laser if the vent is not purifying or removing the fumes produced by the
target material. Research materials before use and never operate the laser on
any (such as PVC, teflon, and other halogen-containing substances) that can
produce corrosive, hazardous, or even deadly fumes.
3.7 Main Power Connection
Confirm that the labeling beside the connection socket on the machine matches
your power supply. Connect one end of the main cable to the connection socket
and the other end to a grounded outlet. Under NO circumstances should you
switch on the device if the voltages do not correspond.
Fluctuation along the line should be less than 5%. If this is exceeded, the
fuses will blow. They are located in the connection socket and are accessible
from the exterior. Similarly, do not connect this device to standard extension
cords or power strips. Connect it directly to a grounded outlet or use a surge
protector rated over 2000J.
3.8 Control Computer
See the software manual for details on the requirements for the control
computer. The control computer can be connected using the provided USB cable
(via the port marked “USB Cable to PC”), using the provided Ethernet cable
(“Ethernet Cable”), or using the internet if the engraver has been connected
to it using the Ethernet cable. If the control computer is directly connected
to the engraver, it should not be placed more than 15 feet (4.5 m) away in
order to avoid possible interference to the signal on its line. Familiarize
yourself with the software’s image design features and laser control settings
before using it to operate the laser.
3.9 Initial Testing
Emergency Shutoff
Because of the risk of fire and other hazards during engraving, this engraver
includes a large and easy-to-reach emergency stop button near the control
panel. Press it down to stop the laser tube instantly. When your engraver
arrives, its e-stop is already pressed and must be pulled up to allow the
laser to function. You should test that it works properly before conducting
ANY other work with your machine. Start the water cooling system, place a
piece of laserable scrap material on the workbed, close the cover, and press
PULSE to fire the laser. Hit the emergency stop button and observe whether the
laser stops instantly. If the laser continues to fire, the emergency stop is
not working and must be replaced before the engraver can be used. Turn off the
machine and contact customer service.
Cover Shutoff (Interlock)
Because of the risk of blindness, burns, and other injury from direct exposure
to the invisible engraving beam, this device also shuts off the laser
automatically when the protective cover is raised during operation. After
ensuring that the emergency stop button works, you should also test that the
cover shutoff works properly before conducting any other work on your machine.
Start the water cooling system, place a piece of laserable scrap material on
the workbed, close the cover, and press PULSE to fire the laser. Release the
button. Taking care not to expose yourself to seeing or being hit by any
possible reflected laser light, open the cover as little as possible and
attempt to fire the laser again. If the laser fires, the automatic shutoff is
not working and must be repaired before the engraver can be used. Turn off the
machine and contact customer service.
Water Shutoff
Because of the danger posed by an uncooled laser tube, this engraver also
shuts off the laser automatically when the water cooling system malfunctions.
After ensuring that the emergency stop button and cover protection both work,
you should also test that the water shutoff works properly before conducting
any other work on your machine. Start the water cooling system, place a piece
of laserable scrap material on the workbed, close the cover, and press PULSE
to fire the laser. Release the button. Cut off the flow of water by crimping
or tying the two hoses. (Take care not to damage the hoses themselves in this
procedure.)
Attempt to fire the laser again. If the laser fires, the automatic shutoff is
not working and must be repaired before the engraver can be used. Turn off the
machine and contact customer service. If the laser does not fire, the
automatic shutoff is working fine; simply release the two hoses to begin
circulating water again and continue setting up your engraver.
Laser Path Calibration
Although our factory calibrates your entire system during assembly, it is
possible for the laser tube, the focus lens, and/or one or more of the mirrors
to be jostled out of alignment during shipment. As such, it is recommended
that you perform an optical alignment test as part of setting up your machine.
See the Maintenance section below for step-by-step guidance.
Air Assist
Your air assist should arrive preinstalled and correctly wired. Simply check
that it is correctly configured and connected as shown. If any tubing or
wiring needs to be reconnected, shut off all power to the machine (including
by pressing the emergency stop) before adjusting anything. Check that its air
intake filter is in place, clean, and not obstructed by any nearby objects.
3.10 Security
For your own safety and that of passersby, this engraver can be locked shut
using the provided key. It is recommended that you use it to lock the machine
between sessions, preventing any unauthorized operation of the machine.
Operation
4.1 Operation Overview
Operate this laser marking machine only in accordance with all the
instructions provided in this manual. Failure to follow the proper guidelines
detailed here can result in property damage and personal injury.
This section will address only some of the options and features provided by
the operation software. Before beginning to use the machine, make sure that
you have read this entire manual (particularly the Safety Information above),
the separate software manual, and any and all warnings provided on the machine
itself.
4.2 General Operation Instructions
Step 1. Create your design that you’d like to engrave. You can do this
directly in your engraving software or use any other graphics program, saving
or converting the file to a format compatible with the engraver. See the full
list of acceptable file types in the Technical Specifications section above.
Step 2. Check that your water tank is full of clean and cool but not cold
distilled water. Replace the water if it is not clean or cool. Add more water
if it is not completely covering the water pump. Turn on the water pump by
plugging it in or (if it’s plugged into the cabinet directly) by pulling up
the emergency stop button and pressing the control system button on the front
of the machine. Visually confirm that the water is flowing through the whole
system either by opening the top rear door to look at the laser tube itself or
by observing that water is entering the machine and returning to the tank
through the outlet tube. If the laser tube is examined directly, remember to
close its access door before continuing. Add more distilled water if the pump
is no longer well covered after filling the engraver’s water tubing.
Step 3. Turn on your fume extractor or ventilation system, if any. (The
engraver’s own exhaust fan will turn on with the machine.)
Step 4. Pull up the emergency stop button and turn on the engraver’s
control panel using its button on the front of the machine. Load your chosen
design directly from a USB flash disk or through your computer’s connection
with the engraver.
Step 5. Open the engraver’s cover, check that the air assist is working
properly, and adjust the workbed if necessary. The honeycomb bed is
recommended for most applications. The bed can be raised or lowered using the
manual adjustment knob to accommodate different thicknesses of various
materials. Alternatively, the honeycomb bed can be removed to expose the
aluminum knife bed and provide a little more space for thicker projects. For
heavier substrates, be careful to distribute the weight as evenly as possible
across the reinforced aluminum supports.
Step 6. Place a sample piece of your material on the workbed. The
standard location is in the top left corner of the workbed. This can be
changed by moving either your design or the location of the engraver’s origin
using either the control panel or your engraving software.
To work on larger pieces of material, you may open the front or rear pass-
through door or both together.
DO NOT insert anything onto the workbed through the pass-through doors
other than the material while the laser is active. Pay special attention to
the fumes and dust that may be released through these doors. Be sure that your
ventilation system is strong enough to pull in all of byproducts or wear the
necessary PPE to ensure the health of users and passersby.
Step 7. Focus the laser by placing the acrylic focus tool on top of the
material and carefully raising the workbed. The laser head should barely touch
the top of the acrylic tool without applying any pressure, ensuring the
engraving distance is correct. (Again, never
attempt to focus the laser either way without some material on the workbed.)
Close the cover.
Step 8. Customize your design’s contrast and engraving depth by adjusting
the parameters in your engraving software or directly through the control
panel. If your engraving instructions detail the power setting in
milliamperes, use the following conversion chart to find the appropriate power
setting:
Power | 10% | 20% | 30% | 40% | 50% | 60% | 70% | 80% | 90% | 98% |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Current (mA) | 2 | 5 | 10 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 24 |
The threshold for the lowest setting is 10%. The laser will not fire at any
setting lower than this. It is NOT recommended to use the laser tube at full
capacity, especially for extended periods. The recommended maximum power
setting is 70%, as prolonged use above that amount will shorten your laser’s
service life.
To increase engraving depth, increase the amount of energy per unit area by
increasing the laser’s power or the number of loops or by slowing down the
speed parameter. Engraving too deep, however, reduces image quality,
especially for coated materials.
When working with new materials, remember that you should always start on the
low end of likely settings. If the effect is not yet strong enough, you can
always rerun the design loop several times or rerun it with more powerful
settings until you create the effect that you want.
Resolution should usually be set to 500 dots per inch. Reducing your image
resolution can be helpful in some cases, reducing flaming and increasing the
energy of the pulse in a way that improves the quality of the resultant image
in some materials such as some plastics.
Step 9. Turn on the laser tube by inserting and turning your laser key.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, once the laser tube is on, try to touch
the engraver with only one hand at a time.
Step 10. Press START PAUSE to engrave your design. Again, do not stare
continuously at the laser even through the protective polycarbonate window.
Watch for possible issues like sparks or fires, however, and be prepared to
quickly extinguish a fire if necessary.
Step 11. Once the laser has stopped, examine the quality of your first
run and adjust the laser parameters on the control panel or in your software
as necessary to create the desired effect.
During repetitive engraving and cutting, periodically check your pump’s tank
to maintain a water temperature below 100°F (38°C). If this temperature is
reached, stop work and allow your engraver to cool before further use.
Step 12. When you have finished engraving, close your engraving software
and then turn off your machine in the following order: laser power supply,
control panel, any ventilation device, the water cooling system, and the
emergency power button. Remove your laser key from the control panel.
Step 13. Fully clean the workbed, emptying any debris from the lower bay.
Step 14. For best results, lock and disconnect your laser engraver from
its power supply between uses. Unplug it or turn off its intermediary surge
protector.
4.3 Instructions for Specific Materials
The following instructions are suggestions to help speed safe work with a
range of materials. The user should research the specific safety and engraving
requirements of their specific material to avoid the risk of fire, hazardous
dust, corrosive and poisonous fumes, and other potential problems. Once the
product is known to be safe or appropriate protective equipment has been set
up, it can be helpful to engrave a test matrix of small boxes produced at
various speed and power settings to discover the ideal settings for your
design. Alternatively, start with low power and fast speed settings and rerun
your design as many times as needed, using progressively greater laser
intensity.
Average Engraving Settings
Description | Acrylic | Glass | Leather | Tile/Stone | Wood |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Natural | Artificial | ||||
100 W | Speed | 350 mm/s | 250 mm/s | 425 mm/s | 450 mm/s |
Power | 15% | 18% | 16% | 15% | 18% |
Ceramics
When engraving on ceramics, generally use moderate to high power. Using more
loops rather than higher power and lower speed can help avoid cracking the
material during work. Be mindful of the health risk posed by dust generated
from ceramic engraving, especially for repetitive industrial applications.
Depending on the material and the amount of work, a fan or even full
ventilation system may be required to address the problem. Similarly,
operators and others in the work area may need to use breathing PPE such as
masks and respirators.
Glass
When engraving glass, generally use high power and low speed. As with
ceramics, it can be helpful to run more loops at lower settings to avoid
cracks. Care must be taken when engraving fiberglass and carbon fiber to avoid
combinations of settings that produce a laser intensity great enough to damage
the structural integrity of its component fibers, producing blurry marking.
PPE should be worn to avoid exposure of the eyes, nose, mouth, and skin to the
dust produced by working with either material, especially for repetitive
industrial applications. Clothing worn while working with fiberglass should be
washed separately afterwards.
Leather
When engraving leather products, generally use low to moderate power at
high speed. Natural leather should be engraved slightly slower and at slightly
higher power than artificial leather. Be especially attentive to the
possibility of fire, as well as the dust produced in repetitive applications.
Description | Thickness of Leather |
---|---|
1/16 in. | 1/8 in. |
100 W | Speed |
Power | 18% |
Metal
CO₂ laser engravers should not be used for marking, engraving, or cutting
metal. They are best suited for working coatings applied to a metal base, and
care must be taken not to attempt work on the underlying metal itself. A
variety of coatings specialized for CO₂ engraving are available, and the user
should follow the instructions provided as the parameters vary from product to
product and metal to metal. Generally, work on aluminum coatings should be
done more quickly at lower power and work on steel coatings can be done more
slowly at higher power.
Paper and Cardboard
When engraving various paper products, generally use low to moderate power and
fast speed. Test samples from each batch, as only small parameter differences
can separate effects that are too light from those that burn through the
substrate. As with leather, be especially attentive of the possibility of
fire, as well as the dust produced in repetitive applications.
Plastics
Plastics for engraving are available in many different colors and thicknesses
and with many different coatings and surfaces. The majority of available
plastics can be well engraved and cut with the laser. Plastics with a
microporous surface seem to give the best result, because less surface
material needs to be removed. When engraving plastics, generally use low power
and high speed settings. Marking and engraving with too much power or at too
low a speed can concentrate too much energy at the point of contact, causing
the plastic to melt. Among other problems, this may produce poor engraving
quality, noxious fumes, and even fires. High resolution engraving can cause
the same problem, so medium to low resolution designs should be preferred for
most plastics.
Description | Thickness of Acrylic |
---|---|
1/16 in. | 1/8 in. |
100 W | Speed |
Power | 18% |
Rubber
The various compositions and densities of rubber cause slightly varying
engraving depth. Testing various settings on sample pieces of your specific
rubber is highly recommended for best results. When engraving rubber,
generally use a consistent high power setting and create your effects by
varying the laser’s speed. Microporous rubber materials require a
significantly higher speed than standard rubber. Engraving any kind of rubber
produces a considerable amount of dust and gas. Depending on the amount of
work, breathing PPE and/or a full ventilation system may be required to
address the problem.
Stone
When engraving various kinds of stone, generally use moderate power and
moderate to fast speed. As with ceramics and glass, be mindful of the dust
created (especially for repetitive industrial applications) and take similar
measures to ensure the safety of users and others in the work area.
Textiles
When engraving textiles like cloth and fleece, generally use low power and
fast speed. As with leather, be especially attentive to the possibility of
fire and dust.
Wood
As with rubber, there is a huge variety of woods and testing your specific
material is essential to get the best results. In general, wood with
consistent grain and coloring engraves more evenly. Knotted wood produces
uneven effects, while resinous wood produces greater edge contrast. Some soft
woods like balsa, cork, and pine engrave well (albeit with low contrast) at
low or moderate power settings and high speed. Others like fir suffer from
uneven fibers that usually produce a poor effect no matter what you do. Hard
woods like cherry and oak engrave well at high power settings and low speed.
Manufactured wood products can vary from brand to brand, mostly based on its
glue composition and abundance. MDF works well but creates dark edges when
cut.
In addition to the risk of fire with any wood product, extra care must be
taken with the fumes from the glue used in plywood and other manufactured
woods. Some are too dangerous to work with at all, while others require
careful ventilation and the use of breathing PPE for repetitive industrial
applications. Wood toxicity should also be examined, as the dust from some
natural woods including oleander and yew can also cause nausea and cardiac
problems in high enough amounts.
Description | Thickness of Baltic Birch Plywood |
---|---|
1/16 in. | 1/8 in. |
100 W | Speed |
Power | 20% |
Maintenance
5.1 Maintenance Overview
The use of procedures other than those specified herein may result in
hazardous laser radiation exposure.
Before any cleaning or maintenance work, always switch off the device and
disconnect it from its power supply.
Always keep the system clean, as flammable debris in the working and exhaust
areas constitutes a fire hazard.
ONLY allow trained and skilled professionals to modify or disassemble this
device.
- Clean and cool water must be provided to the system at all times.
- The working table must be cleaned on a daily basis.
- The 3rd mirror and the focus lens must be checked every day and cleaned if required.
- The other mirrors, exhaust system, and air intake filter must be checked every week and cleaned if required.
- The beam alignment should be checked weekly.
- The wiring should be checked every week for loose connections, especially the wiring for the laser tube power supply.
- The guide rails should be cleaned and lubricated at least twice a month.
- The air assist must be checked every month and cleaned if required.
- The whole laser machine including the other components such as the water cooling system must be checked every month and cleaned where required.
5.2 Water Cooling System
NEVER touch or adjust your engraver’s water supply while the pump is still
connected to power.
The laser tube requires cool and clean distilled water to avoid overheating.
Tepid water at room temperature or a little below is ideal. The laser tube
requires at least 2 gallons (7.5 L) of cool and clean distilled water or other
laser-safe coolant to avoid overheating. If the temperature of the water ever
approaches 100°F (38°C), discontinue work until it has cooled or find a way to
reduce its temperature without interrupting the supply of water to the laser
tube. The water should never be allowed to become too cold either, which could
also cause the glass laser tube to shatter during use. During winter or if ice
is used to cool hot water, ensure the temperature never falls below 50°F
(10°C).
More water should be added every few days to ensure evaporation does not cause
the pump to become exposed during use.
5.3 Cleaning
5.3.1 Cleaning the Water System
NEVER touch or adjust your engraver’s water supply while the pump is still
connected to power.
The water tank should be shielded from ambient dust created during work. If
the water ever becomes visibly dirty, discontinue work. The debris in the
water will reduce its cooling efficiency, can heat up itself, and can damage
the cooling pipes. Change the water, place the water outlet tube into a
separate bucket, and run the cooling system until all contaminated water has
been flushed from the engraver. Clean the water tank itself before refilling
it with clean and cool distilled water, replacing the outlet tube, and
continuing operation.
If the water remains visibly clean at all times, it is still recommended that
you clean the water tank about once a month as a precaution, changing the
water as you do so.
If you use an industrial water chiller instead of the provided pump, follow
its separate instructions for maintenance but similarly ensure that the water
used remains cool, clean, and pure.
5.3.2 Cleaning the Main Bay and Engraver
Check at least once a day whether dust has accumulated in the main engraving
bay. If so, it must be removed. The exact cleaning interval and requirements
strongly depend on the material being processed and the operating time of the
device. A clean machine guarantees optimal performance and reduces service
costs, as well as reducing the risk of fire or injury. Clean the viewing
window with mild cleansers and a lens or cotton cloth. DO NOT use paper towels
as they can scratch the window and reduce the cover’s ability to protect you
from laser radiation. Clean the interior of the main bay thoroughly, removing
any debris particles or deposits.
Paper towels and window cleaner are recommended. When necessary, clean the
cover of the laser tube after it has been allowed to cool completely. Allow
any fluid used in any cleaning to dry completely before further use of the
engraver.
5.3.3 Cleaning the Focus Lens
The lens has a durable coating and won’t be damaged by correct and careful
cleaning. You should check the lens and the 3rd mirror daily and clean them if
there is any debris or haze on their surface. Your laser will be less
efficient and heat buildup on the oil or dust itself can damage the lens.
-
Move the engraving table to a distance approximately 4″ (10 cm) under the lens holder.
-
Move the laser head into the center of the workbed and put a cloth under the lens holder so that the lens will not be damaged if it accidentally falls from its holder.
-
Unscrew the lens holder, rotating to the left.
-
Remove the pressurized air hose and laser guide connections.
-
Once positioned over your clean lens-cleaning tissue, remove the lens from the lens holder by carefully turning the lens holder and letting the lens and its O-ring drop onto the cleaning cloth.
-
Examine the O-ring and, if necessary, clean it with a cotton bud and a lens-cleaning tissue or cloth.
-
Remove coarse dust as well as possible by blowing air onto the lens surface.
-
Check the surface and, if necessary, clean the lens with the lens cleaning liquid and lens tissue or cloth.
-
Hold the lens assembly by its edge with a lens-cleaning tissue and use a drop of lens-cleaning liquid. While holding the lens at an angle, flush both surfaces to wash away grime.
-
Put the lens on a clean lens-cleaning tissue and put some lens-cleaning liquid on one side of the lens. Leave the liquid to take effect for approximately one minute and then gently wipe it away with lens-cleaning tissues soaked with lens-cleaning liquid. Dry this side of the lens with dry lens-cleaning tissues/cloth.
-
Repeat the same cleaning process on the other side of the lens.
NEVER use a cleaning tissue twice. Dust accumulated in the cleaning tissue could scratch the lens surface. -
Examine the lens. If it is still dirty, repeat the cleaning process above until the lens is clean. Do not touch the surface of the lens after cleaning.
-
Carefully insert the lens into the lens holder, ensuring that its rounded convex side is facing upwards. Put the O-ring on top of the lens.
-
Carefully reassemble the lens and laser head attachments in reverse order.
5.3.4 Cleaning the Mirrors
The mirrors should be similarly cleaned if there is any debris or haze on
their surface to improve performance and avoid permanent damage. The 1st
mirror is located in the back left of the machine beyond the far end of the Y
axis. The end of the laser tube closest to this mirror is itself a
semitransparent mirror that should be checked at the same time. The 2nd mirror
is located on the Y axis at the left end of the X axis. The 3rd mirror is
located on top of the laser head on the X axis. The most detritus accumulates
on the 3rd mirror and it should be checked daily along with the focus lens.
The laser tube and the 1st and 2nd mirrors can be checked daily if desired but
are usually fine if they are only checked once a week. The semitransparent
mirror at the end of the laser tube should only be cleaned when the engraver
is fully disconnected from power and the tube is fully cooled. Clean all four
mirrors with lens-cleaning tissue or with cotton wetted with lens-cleaning
liquid or isopropyl alcohol. The 3 positioning mirrors can be cleaned in place
or removed for cleaning by turning them counterclockwise. Take care not to
touch the surface of any mirror directly. Clean with gentle circular motions
and avoid pressing hard enough to grind any debris or cause scratching. If any
mirrors are removed for cleaning, reinstall them by turning them into place
clockwise while again being careful to avoid any scratching.
5.4 Laser Path Alignment
Having a proper beam alignment is important for the overall efficiency of the
machine and quality of its work. This machine went through a complete beam
alignment before shipping. When the engraver first arrives and about once a
week during normal operation, however, it is recommended that users confirm
that alignment is still at acceptable levels and that the mirrors and focus
lens have not shifted due to the movement of the machine.
You will need to place a piece of tape at each stage of the laser path,
marking it to confirm that that stage remains correctly aligned. When it is
not, you will use the laser tube’s brackets or the screws on the back of the
misaligned mirror to correct the problem. Once the provided tape runs out, we
recommend masking tape as it is easy to manage and use.
Performing a beam alignment can expose the operator to small amounts of
radiation if performed carelessly. Follow these procedures correctly and
always take caution when performing a beam alignment.
Perform a beam alignment at low power levels: 15% or less. Any higher
percentage will cause the laser to ignite the testing tape instead of marking
it. Be sure that you set the Max. Power (not Min.) to 15%.
5.4.1 Laser Tube Alignment
To test the alignment of the laser tube with the 1st mirror, cut out a
piece of tape and place it on the mirror’s frame. DO NOT place the tape
directly onto the mirror. Turn on the machine and set the power level to 15%
or lower.
Press PULSE to manually fire the laser. You should be able to see a small mark
on the tape. If it is not noticeable, press PULSE again.
Pressing PULSE activates the laser. Always make sure the path is clear between
the laser and its target. Never allow foreign objects between the laser and
its target. Take care not to leave any part of your body in the laser path
while pressing the PULSE button. The laser mark should be near the center of
the hole. If the laser is not centered on the 1st mirror, cut the power to
your laser and carefully adjust the laser tube in its brackets. This may
require loosening the bolts on its stand. Be careful not to overloosen the
bolts and not to overtighten them. Only adjust one stand at a time. 5.4.2
1st Mirror Alignment
After ensuring the laser is well aligned between the laser tube and 1st
mirror, check the alignment between the 1st and 2nd mirrors. First, use the
direction arrows on the control panel to send the 2nd mirror to the back of
the bed along the Y axis. Once set, place a piece of tape on the 2nd mirror’s
frame. DO NOT place the tape directly onto the mirror. Repeat the steps from
§5.4.1. If the laser is not centered on the 2nd mirror, you will need to
adjust the 1st mirror’s set screws accordingly. To adjust the mirror, loosen
the nut on the screw and then slightly turn the screw either clockwise or
counterclockwise. Each screw adjusts a different position or angle. Keep track
of which screw you are adjusting and the direction of adjustment. Do not turn
the screw more than ¼ turn at a time and, especially at first, test the
position of the laser after each adjustment so that you learn the effect of
each change. Test until the beam is well aligned and then retighten the nuts
on the screws once all adjustments are completed.
Next, use the direction arrows on the control panel to send the 2nd mirror to
the front of the bed along the Y axis. Once set, place another piece of tape
on the 2nd mirror’s frame. DO NOT place the tape directly onto the mirror.
Repeat the steps from §5.4.1 and, if necessary, adjust the set screws on the
1st mirror. Test again until the beam is well aligned and retighten the nuts
on the set screws.
5.4.3 2nd Mirror Alignment
After ensuring the laser is well aligned between the 1st and 2nd mirrors,
check the alignment between the 2nd and 3rd mirrors. Repeat the steps and
adjustments above, taking care to use the tape on the mirror’s frame and not
its surface. 5.4.4 3rd Mirror Alignment
After ensuring the laser is well aligned between the 2nd and 3rd mirrors,
check the alignment between the 3rd mirror and the workbed. First, unplug the
air assist hose from the laser head. Then, place a piece of tape across the
bottom of the laser head and press it onto the nozzle with some force. This
will leave a ring mark that can help you check the accuracy. Repeat the steps
from §5.4.1. If the laser is not centered through the laser head, adjust the
3rd mirror’s set screws accordingly as in §5.4.2. Test again until the beam is
well aligned and retighten the nuts on the set screws. When the laser is well
centered along the entire path from the tube to the workbed, your laser
mirrors are all correctly calibrated and (assuming they are clean) performing
at optimum efficiency.
5.5 Lubrication
For best results, clean and lubricate the engraver’s guide rails every two
weeks. Turn off the laser engraver. Gently move the laser head out of the way.
Wipe away all dust and debris along the X and Y axis rails with a dry cotton
cloth until they are shiny and clean. Do the same to the Z axis screws.
Lubricate both the rails and screws with white lithium grease. Gently move the
laser head and X axis to distribute the lubricant evenly along both rails and
raise and lower the bed to distribute the lubricant evenly along the screws.
5.6 Parts Replacement
The engraver should not be modified or disassembled by anyone except trained
and skilled professionals, but some consumable parts may require replacement
after prolonged use. Be sure only to use identical or compatible replacement
parts with this engraver. Contact your vendor or our technicians if you have
any questions about fitment. Using incompatible components is highly dangerous
and waives all the manufacturer’s liability for any damage or injury caused.
ALWAYS completely disconnect the engraver from its power supply before
replacing any parts.
Take special care when replacing the laser tube or its power supply, as both
have extremely high voltage connections. If you replace the power supply with
an identical model, you will be able to use the same screw terminal blocks as
a unit. If you change to a different laser power supply, refer to the
following diagram: FG: Ground Wire for the Mains and Case
AC₁ : Neutral Wire to the Main Power
AC₂: Live Input from the Main Power
H: Connection for Active-High Devices
L: Connection for Active-Low Devices (like this machine)
P: Line to the Trigger, Water, & Other Systems (like the door switch)
G : Ground Wire for the Control System, PWM Level Shifters,
Potentiometers, &c.
IN: Input Power for PWM Level Shifters or Potentiometers
5V: 5V Connection for Digital Signals 5.7 Disposal Instructions
**** Electrical products should not be disposed of with household products.
In the EU and UK, according to the European Directive 2012/19/EU for the
disposal of electrical and electronic equipment and its implementation in
national laws, used electrical products must be collected separately and
disposed of at the collection points provided for this purpose. Locations in
Australia, Canada, and the United States may have similar regulations. Contact
your local authorities or dealer for disposal and recycling advice.
Contact Us
Thank you again for choosing our laser equipment for your needs!
If you’re satisfied with the machine’s performance, please consider leaving a
positive review at the website listing where you made your purchase. If you
encounter any problem regarding this engraver, do not hesitate to contact us
with your order ID(at MP Customer support Email:
support@monportlaser.com and Amazon/ eBay
Customer support
Email:support@monportlaser.com ) and our
customer service team will respond within 24 hours.
Thank you and we hope you will choose us again for your next purchase!