I'm trying to vector cut Sapphire Blue with white core namebadges. I can raster them just fine but when I try to vector cut a shape (non-square) the surface chips leaving the white core showing.

I have an Epilog 75 watt. The manual's recommendation is 20s 20p and 500frequency. That setting barely cuts the material. I have bumped it up to 20s 70p and while it gets through I'm not happy with the edge.

I have cleaned the optics so I'm confident that's not a factor. What are others running this material at?

Patty

Are you sure the frequency is listed as 500 ? I run 5000 - 7000 HZ for a clean cut.

You may have to take 2-3 passes. Make sure the speed is not to fast for shapes that have lots of sharp turns.

Yes - manual says 500. My range is 10-5000.

And to repost the original question - what else is everyone running?

I have good luck with the 500 freq. Seems like if it's too high I used to get remelt/rougher edges with a higher freq.

Shaddy

Hi Patty -
We have two Epilogs at 75 watt - slightly different settings on each - the Legend 36EXT - we vector at 20 speed - 24 power without tape on back - 26 power with tape - pulse rate at 1000-1200. Much more power than this tend to make the edges extra sticky. Last week we engraved & vector cut over 2500 pieces 2.5" diameter out of Lasermark. I cannot say that I have ever experienced chipping on the edge or the cut as you are describing. The other laser settings are close but slightly slower & about the same pulse rate - it is a 5 year old Legend.

Your power setting would be quite a bit too high for me. Machines of the same power rating will have different optimum settings because in reality they are not the same power - they are normally slightly more powerful than there rating - some quite a bit.

I suggest testing a cut with 1000 - 1500 pulse using 20s and start with 30p and see if you get a clean cut. If you do reduce power to the point where you are just barely getting through then bump up just a few points (2 or 3) for good measure.

If this does not work for you - I would talk with tech support at Epilog.
I have always found them to be very helpful.

Thanks for the tips. I still have more playing to do but I'm now getting an acceptable product.

Patty

So far the best I can do is 20s, 30p and 2000frequency.

The best I can figure out is that maybe this stock is a little old. Its certainly not reacting the way my other colors are. I've ordered new stock to test.