Laser fabrication

http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:354453
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WPjHpUH9Zic
http://forum.seemecnc.com/viewtopic.php?f=35&t=6180

What software to use for the work with the laser?

Use Pronterface for best results. Or use the same software as your own printer – just set Z scale to -1 and infill to 0. All printing software has these settings.

Average speed of cutting:

Paper	20mm/sec
Wood	2mm/sec
Plexiglas	3mm/sec
Cardboard	10mm/sec
Hardboard	1mm/sec
Balsa	5mm/sec

How to install the laser?

Mount it on top of your extruder, and connect it to the extruder heater!

How to fix the laser:

http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:643091

http://makerlibre.com/products/l-cheapo-laser-mk2-laser-cutter-attachment

Our laser was tested and mounted onto the following models;

• Solidoodle (2-3-4)
• Mendel
• Mondo
• Pruisa
  Rigidbot
• Shapeoko CNC
• Handibot CNC
• 8200 model from Jameco
• All RAMPS compatible printers
• All Monoprice printers

In general, any 3D printer that uses an Arduino or compatible and any 3-axis CNC machine.

Our laser is compatible with all 3D-printers, which we have tested, but Cubify. In January Endurance modified the construction a little.

http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:643091

The ventilator axis is not parallel but perpendicular to the laser axis.

What is the difference between a СО2 laser and a diode laser?

CO2 is more powerful. This is the main advantage. However:
CO2 is harder to set up (laser cannot be moved – mirrors must be used- they can go out of alignment);
CO2 cannot be carried around (see the problem above);
CO2 requires buying CO2 continually, as there is always some leakage;
CO2 requires compressed air for cooling;
CO2 is subject to export restrictions in most countries;
CO2 is very delicate (lots of glass apparatus) and may be damaged during shipping.