Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Discuss all things diode hobby lasers. Project settings, materials, hardware, tips & tricks, etc.
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ZGrouch
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by ZGrouch »

Thanks for posting this. Good information to know. Appreciate you.
My nickname is Grouch. I use the xTool D1 10w Laser. I live in Utah. And I am a total noob at this, but having fun learning more.
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by Glasgowjohn »

RE: cutting glue backed substances what about using masking tape or vinyl rolls that we see people using on youtube
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by EGA »

Is PET (polyethylene Terepthalate) safe to cut with the laser. I want to cut laminated card stock to make playing cards.
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by PopPopMoose »

All good info. Thanks Muchly!
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by LostOakStudio »

I read through this thread and didn't see it mentioned anywhere hopefully I didn't over look it but, what about PU (polyurethane) leather? a google search comes up with lot's of conflicting information but, what I am taking away from it is, yes it will engrave but it can/will emit toxic fumes. although again conflicting information about how toxic and in what amounts? anyway just wondering if anyone here has solid information or personal experience with it.
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Just getting started with laser engraving wanted to be able to ad a little something extra to some of my wood work.
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by Sparkxy »

I see on the list that we can't/shouldn't cut cork with glue backing but what about etching on the cork side but not deep enough to penetrate the glue? Like 4000/18 power? Would this be safe or not worth the risk? Not looking for a deep or very dark burn just enough to see the logo.

I bought these below to adhere to the bottom side of wood coasters but would like to engrave my logo on them.


Thanks in advance for your advice :D
Kim, SculpFun S9 90W, Artisan of many mediums since age 11 and now a Laser Beginner :D
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by LAHobbyGuy »

That's fine, no problem. But remember that everything you engrave or cut is toxic to some degree. If you can smell it, it's bad. So make sure you have good ventilation when using your laser. Preferably an enclosure venting to the outdoors.

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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by darinius417 »

Wow, thank you so much for this! I actually had a lot of these concerns and didn't find anything else online. This site needs to be front and center on Google! :D
My name is Darin. Sporting an Atomstack S20 20w. I have been 3D Printing for 2 years, laser cutting for a month now.
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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by joejones »

bigsmith56 wrote: Sun Sep 05, 2021 3:00 pm Any known issues engraving luxury vinyl flooring used for coasters?
Yes! It is really GOOD at setting off every smoke detector in your home! It is also a vinyl, which apparently gives off Chlorine Gas, which can kill you. I guess I will have to invest in a water jet for these laser-UNfriendly materials.

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Re: Diode Hobby Laser Etching & Cutting Warning!

Post by pflataz »

I have an enclosure that I built, it has a hinged plexiglass lid and a 4" vent hole. I have a 4" duct fan and a carbon filter. I have never had a smoke or smell problem. I hope this helps.
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