Questions before Build
Posted: Fri Apr 06, 2012 7:01 pm
Hi I am interested in building a laser machine.
I stumbled upon the lasersaur project before finding the buildlog 2x and after reading the pros and cons of both, I'm a little confuse.
First, while buildlog 2x seems much refined, it's limited workspace is an disadvantage - I would like to cut at least A1 size materials. Hence, would I be able to extend the cutting area easily by modifying the plans abit? I am an architecture student hence mechanical and fabrication skills shouldnt be a problem but I'm a little worried about the electronics and calibration.
Second, can someone explain the difference between the wattage of lasers please. The lasersaur allows for a 100w but the 2x mostly uses a 40w. While i know 100w cuts faster, what can a 40w laser cut? We have 120w epilog lasers in school (which are over booked) and sometimes we have trouble cutting through our materials - probably due to poor maintenance and warping of the material. Is 40w enough? - I cut mostly cardboard, bristol board and acrylic. Occasionally I would like to be able to cut plywood as well.
Third, would i be able to build this machine without ordering any of the kits? As mentioned above, I have access to laser machines and a metal fabrication workshop. Also, what is the lowest budget anyone has had when building a laser cutter.
Thanks
I stumbled upon the lasersaur project before finding the buildlog 2x and after reading the pros and cons of both, I'm a little confuse.
First, while buildlog 2x seems much refined, it's limited workspace is an disadvantage - I would like to cut at least A1 size materials. Hence, would I be able to extend the cutting area easily by modifying the plans abit? I am an architecture student hence mechanical and fabrication skills shouldnt be a problem but I'm a little worried about the electronics and calibration.
Second, can someone explain the difference between the wattage of lasers please. The lasersaur allows for a 100w but the 2x mostly uses a 40w. While i know 100w cuts faster, what can a 40w laser cut? We have 120w epilog lasers in school (which are over booked) and sometimes we have trouble cutting through our materials - probably due to poor maintenance and warping of the material. Is 40w enough? - I cut mostly cardboard, bristol board and acrylic. Occasionally I would like to be able to cut plywood as well.
Third, would i be able to build this machine without ordering any of the kits? As mentioned above, I have access to laser machines and a metal fabrication workshop. Also, what is the lowest budget anyone has had when building a laser cutter.
Thanks