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Week 03 — Computer-Controlled Cutting

Assignment requirements (Fab Academy)

Group - Do lab safety training - Characterize laser cutter: focus, power, speed, rate, kerf, joint clearance & joint types

Individual - Cut something on the vinyl cutter - Design + laser-cut a parametric construction kit (account for kerf)

Tools & Machines

  • CAD: (RDWorks / Fusion / Illustrator)
  • Laser cutter: RW-1390 C02
  • Vinyl cutter: Mimaki CG-FXII

Group assignment — Laser cutter characterization

1) Safety Training

Before operating the laser cutter, we follow strict safety rules in our lab to prevent fire hazards, toxic fumes, and equipment damage.

🔥 1. Never Leave the Laser Unattended

The laser cutter must never be left unattended while operating.

Even if the cutting job takes a long time, we stay in the same room and continuously monitor the process.

Laser cutting plywood or cardboard can ignite unexpectedly. Immediate reaction is critical to prevent fire.

🌲 2. Extra Care with Plywood and Cardboard

When cutting plywood or cardboard, we take additional precautions because:

  • These materials are highly flammable
  • Glue layers in plywood can ignite
  • Cardboard can burn quickly if power/speed settings are incorrect

We carefully monitor flame formation and are ready to stop the machine immediately if necessary.

🌬 3. Industrial Ventilation System

Our lab uses an extra industrial ventilation module.

  • The exhaust duct extends above the building roof
  • This prevents smoke from spreading inside the building
  • It protects other workers and nearby animals from harmful fumes

Proper ventilation is essential because laser cutting produces smoke and fine particles.

💧 4. Water Cooling / Chiller System Check

Before every cutting session, we:

  • Check the water cooling (chiller) system
  • Confirm water circulation is working
  • Ensure the temperature is within a safe operating range

Laser tubes can overheat and be permanently damaged if cooling fails.

🛑 5. Additional Safety Measures

  • Never cut PVC or unknown plastics (to avoid toxic chlorine gas)
  • Keep a fire extinguisher accessible
  • Clean the cutting bed before operation
  • Turn on air assist during cutting

2) Focus Adjustment Test

To achieve accurate cutting results, correct laser focus is essential.

To adjust the focus height, I used a small focus test pattern.
I gradually adjusted the Z height until the cut line became the thinnest and cleanest.

Correct focus produces: - Minimal burn marks - Sharp cut edges - Smallest kerf width

The best focus height was determined visually by comparing the cut quality.