Full Version: Substrate Surface Variation...

From: Dave Jones (DAVERJ) [#5]
19 Dec 2006
To: Wysard (CWYSARD) [#3] 19 Dec 2006

Lasers are focused through a lens, so there is a specific point of focus a certain distance from the lens (about 2" is the most common). They go out of focus fairly quickly, so small variations in height are doable, but major ones are not.

From: Boz (CHEDDARHEAD) [#6]
20 Dec 2006
To: ALL

Rule of thumb for depth of field of focused laser beams through a lens
1.5" fl lens - maybe .100"
2" fl. lens - maybe .200"
4" fl. lens - maybe as much as 3/8"

I have gotten away with these kinds of depth of field variations on some materials when engraving. If your graphic is not too detailed, you might be able to get away with a little more. Now for vector cutting, you probably won't get away with as much. Your cut quality through a piece will change drastically as you move away from the focus point.

When I am cutting something thicker than 1/8" thk., I usually run my focus point about a third of the way down into the material. This helps keep the edges of the cut a little straighter.

Show messages: All 1-4 5-6

Full Version: Substrate Surface Variation...

Back to thread list | Login

© 2025 Project Beehive Forum