Paper cutting with makeblock official 500mW laser upgrade?

#1

Hi there,

I’m wondering how well the laser upgrade from makeblock work …

As it is only 500mW 405nm I’m not very sure it will make it for paper cutting.
If i’m right it should be enough to engrave some materials.

I want to use it for cutting stencils made of paper, cardboard or acetate (thin materials)

Will it be enough ? Is it easy to mount alternative diode laser modules ? I’ve seen several on the net from 1W to 6W but I dont know if they are easy to install and make them work (dont thing it’s just about “plug&play”, i should set a new driver and other settings ?)

Please any help will be welcome,
Thanks everyone for your time.

#2

from experience I can tell you that paper is easy to cut. In cardboard you have already repeatedly cut. Wood you can forget. The question of whether and how a stronger laser can be rendered would be interested too. If then only with an external power supply, I would say.

#3

Do you think it would be easy to mount one of these ?

Or do you have any suggestions on other solutions ?
If someone from France or Switzerland or nearby it would be great to hearing from you…
Im a bit confused right about what to do

#4

Thanks for the help!

So … I thought it could cut thin cardboard in only 1 pass … i’m not thinking of cardboard you use for boxes/packaging, etc

How many passes do you thing would be necessary for cutting simple thin cardboard like this one ?
200gr/m2

maybe just one for thin stuff like this ?

What about acetate ??

As I said, i just want to cut out stencils from thin material, just that.

Thanks a lot, Much appreciate your help

#5

I cut 260g / sqm cardboard with black ink with 3 runs. However, it is always dependent on the density of the material. At 0.5mm wood I also need 3 passes just as with 1mm balsa wood. I think the square two passages should be enough at 200g /. The time you need for this is, however, (the size dependent) to be very large because you are working at full capacity and the longest pause must.
Unfortunately, I know your knowledge in electronics but do not you just should clarify whether the controller can withstand the power of the laser and the fan once.

#6