[crandolph]

I think the M700 and X700 are mostly the same machine. My cutting area is 700x500 which seems like it's the X700 since it also has the same base as well. It looks like your motor is reversed and mounted on the opposite side and I'm willing to bet it's completely random which way they mount the motor so more than likely I'll have to move mine. My only problem is that I'll have to adjust the drag chain while I'm in there since that seems why they mounted my motor to the outside. My machine has the cut out panel for passing the longer tube through. Inside my machine there is only enough room for a 41" long tube. I just ordered a 100w F4 tube which is 56.25" long and 80mm diameter. So I'll have a good 16" of tube sticking out the side. I have designed a strong 3d printed enclosure that will mount with the same screw holes on the pass through that should protect it from bumps and general stupidity. Here is a picture on the first part I printed and I have the cap and another 2 extensions to print which will give me a good 18" of space to cover the tube. It's sleeved and snaps together.

[brian257]

Perhaps some of you that have upgraded to larger tubes can help me with something. I posted these questions a few days ago, but have not gotten any replies yet.

I have a K40 laser with the standard tube that is about 35W. I am thinking of building a bigger laser of 80-100W to cut faster and thicker material, but I also need to do fine engraving and want better quality than I am getting from the K40. I am wondering if I go with the more powerful tube and a beam expander if my fine engraving quality will go up or down or if I can even turn the power down enough on a more powerful tube to engrave very thin engraving stock (.020" reverse engrave stock and rocker switches with a very thin black cap layer).