Thread: Greolt's Laser Build

It is starting to look like a machine now.

Got the lid done.

I have been following and am thoroughly enjoying this build!

If you don't mind, how much has this machine set you back in materials/parts?

Can't wait to see it cutting!

Cody

Cody

I make a conscious decision not to list all the little expenses and add them up. And believe me they do add up.

Any major component I can tell you what it cost but not a total.

This way I can be vague if the boss asks me how much this contraption costs.

I am forever running out for some more bolts, a piece of material or another little ebay purchase.

The overiding thing is that I do this because I enjoy the process and if it costs a bit then so be it.

Sorry that did not answer your question.

Greg

EDITED: Too much information. You never know who might read this.

Not to mention the quality of machine is probably much higher than some imports and gaining the inner working knowledge of the machine will save money in the long run as repairs and obtaining replacement parts are easily diagnosed and replaced. Nothing worse than trying to fault find something you have not seen before or do not have drawings/schematics for.

Daniel

HEre is some light reading on a laser build. Quite interesting

The Laser Project.

Originally Posted by Greolt

Cody

I make a conscious decision not to list all the little expenses and add them up. And believe me they do add up.

Any major component I can tell you what it cost but not a total.

This way I can be vague if the boss asks me how much this contraption costs.

I am forever running out for some more bolts, a piece of material or another little ebay purchase.

The overiding thing is that I do this because I enjoy the process and if it costs a bit then so be it.

Sorry that did not answer your question.

Greg

EDITED: Too much information. You never know who might read this.

Thanks for that Greg, I was quick in anyway.

But never mind my lips are sealed (top secret)

Bit more progress.

Got the tube mounted. Need to make up a cover for this.



And a lot of the electricals installed. This will be redone if/when I change over to a DSP.

On the top panel is the main power switch, Emergency Stop, Ammeter and a 10 turn pot with integrated counter dial.

Front panel is the test fire button with a safety interlock, free axis switch which allows for easy manual axis positioning, and the three ancillary power switches.

Just about your windows don't they need to be colored to stop any harmful rays from being viewed?

The wavelength of CO2 laser is 10 micron (0.01 mm) and it sees acrylic as completely opaque. Unlike YAG lasers etc.

Unless the beam is concentrated enough to cut through the acrylic, then you are protected from any stray reflections.

So first and foremost you are screened from the laser.

Coloured windows are more about dimming the sometimes bright reactions of the laser burning the target material.

I am very accustomed to working in engineering type environments, with welding going on randomly all around. So I chose to maintain a good clear view of what is happening.

I don't plan to stand staring at the cutting for hours. And besides I have coloured safety glasses for doing that.

Greg

Looks great Greg. Not much longer and you'll be cutting.

Are those the Rose coloured glasses i've heard so much about...lol.

Originally Posted by twistedfuse

Are those the Rose coloured glasses i've heard so much about...lol.

Yes that's the idea.

Everything that comes off the laser will look fantastic.

Woo Hoo!! I have been out in the shed cutting and engraving.

This thing actually works.

It is late and I must go to work tomorrow. Will post some pics etc. soon.

Greg

What time you finish work? Gotta come see this creation in action so I can start thinking of possible uses for such a machine.

Brad.

Brad

Give me a ring. Have you got my number?

Fairly sure I do not have yours.

Greg