Hello,
I'm planning to build a laser cutter machine. I'd use it to cut 2-3mm thick plywood, and acrylics. Plexy up to 10mm tops probably.
As machine, I'm pretty ok with everything, no questions here.
I do have questions about the lasers and the modus operandi of'em.
I've started to read the forums here and there, but I just get lost with all the info.
I have been looking for the Coletech CO2 lasers, I see their tubes, and as pricing they seem allright. It sounds too good in fact.
My questions are as follows:
a. - where do I need lenses? also what kind and what sizes? mirrors I assume depend on the machine setup.
b. - do I need some airflow to avoid flames on the cut?
c. - as of water cooling, can it be a DIY sistem with some household pump?
d. - lots of debates on software. I see splitting the laser and the motion. Why not use Mach 3 both for the motion control and the laser at once?
e. - what does a laser consists of? - power supply/laser tube/lenses/(mirrors?) and that's it? am I missing something here? what else do I need?
f. - I saw people using z axis for setting engraving or cutting. If I want to engrave, not cut, isn't it enough if I just raise the speed of the machine?
g. - longlife or normal tubes? I see different terms. Is it working hours and life span? seems cheaper to buy non longlife tubes and just change them in time...
h. - what W should I choose for my needs? 60W should it be enough? I'm worried about the kerf issue on 10mm plexy (in a weaker laser with a slower cut).
i. - where and how do I link the laser to my cnc driver? the driver that I use does have the ability to control mill or other equipment.
As I said before, at the point where I stand now, it seems too easy. If anybody would be kind enough to help I would highly apreciate it.
Thanks in advance,
Pupet