Week 3 > Computer Controlled Cutting

Group Assignment Work

by Tamrat Teklemarkos & Rico Kanthatham

Lasercutter Specifications > INK Makerspace

Machine Model > GS Laser System GS6090PU
Laser Type > CO2
Laser Wattage > 100W
Bed Size > Max Speed > 100mm/s

Laser Control Software > RD Works V8.01

In our incubation center, I have (The following INK equipments are freely available for startup desigated to the center):

My GS laser system GS6090 PU (100 W) is a China-made industrial-grade CO₂ machine that uses a 100-watt laser source to precisely cut, engrave or mark a variety of materials. It’s typically designed for high-accuracy, automated processing of non-metal and some metal workpieces, depending on the model and optical setup. Common features include:

• 100W laser power for efficient cutting/engraving.
• CO₂ laser technology (10 600 nm wavelength) for cutting/engraving acrylics, woods, plastics and leather, or fiber laser for metal (engraving) marking depending on variant.
• Cooling system (air or water) and built-in safety features for stable long-term operation.
• These systems are used in manufacturing, signage, prototyping, craft and industrial workshops for detailed engraving, cutting shapes and marking serial codes or logos.

Lasercutter Safety Rules

The lasercutter has a high fire risk, in addition to general laser safety risks.

• Have fire suppression equipment nearby to the lasercutter (fire extinguisher, fire blanket)
• DO NOT run a lasercutter job with the cover in the OPEN position
• DO NOT look at the laser beam directly without laser eye protection
• Always turn on the water cooling and air ventilation system in the machine when running a cut job
• Never leave the lasercutter unobserved when a cutting job is running
• If a fire is observed inside the machine…immediately turn OFF power to the lasercutter
• Suppress the fire as soon as it is obseved so that it does not grow
• Take care when opening the cover to the lasercutter when there is a fire inside, as the addition oxygen may cause flames to flare up

Lasercutter Characterization

The purpose of laser cutter characterization is to understand: - What the machine can and cannot do
- How precise it is
- How settings affect cut quality and accuracy

Key parameters studied: - Focus
- Power
- Speed
- Frequency / Rate
- Kerf
- Joint Clearance

The objective is to understand the capabilities, precision, and limitations of the laser cutter.

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Characterization Process

We worked as a group to:
1. Review laser cutter safety rules
2. Cut test coupons using different materials and settings
3. Observe how changes in power, speed, and focus affect cut quality
4. Measure kerf and determine ideal press-fit slot width
Group Assignment Page:

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Kerf Measurement

We used the Kerf Chec ker tool by Doyo-sensei to measure kerf and determine ideal slot width.
Tool:
Kerf Check Tool

Settings Used - Starting Width: 2.5 mm
- Increment: −0.05 mm
- Repetitions: 11

The difference between the material thickness and the ideal press-fit slot width is the kerf.

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GS Laser syestem – Laser Cutter Workflow

1. Turn ON the laser cutter and check the parallel installed (Air copression, Chiller/cooling)
2. Place and secure material on the bed
3. Focus the laser on material surface
4. Set the origin point (XY)
5. Assign colors for cut and engrave lines
6. Send design to RDWorksV8.01 Job Control
7. Assign power, speed, and frequency per color
8. Turn ON air assist
9. Align job to laser head
10. Close lid and turn ON fume extraction
11. Run the job and monitor continuously

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Reference:
What Is Laser Cutting Kerf? Essential Insights for Precision Cutting

• Review and follow laser cutter safety procedures

• Document results on the Group Assignment page
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Personal Reflection

Participating in the laser cutter characterization helped me understand how small parameter changes can significantly affect cut quality and dimensional accuracy. Measuring kerf was especially important, as it directly influenced my press-fit design in the individual assignment.

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