How to create fine patterns on wood with a laser engraving machine? Five key tips
To create chisel-like fine patterns on wood with a laser engraving machine, just remember these 5 key techniques:
1. Select wood and apply glue first
Basswood, maple and cherry wood have fine grains and the edges of carvings will not be rough. Before engraving, stick masking tape all over the surface. After engraving, tear it off and the charred edge is almost invisible.
2. The focus is exactly the same
Lower the laser head to the position where the red light point is the smallest and brightest, and then raise it by 1 to 2 mm. This is the focal plane. Use the "light cut test" to cut a 0.1mm thin line. A sharp line indicates that it is accurate.
3. Low power, high speed, do it several times
Fine patterns should not be deeply engraved at one time. Reduce the power to 15% to 25%, increase the speed to around 150 mm/s, set the DPI at 400 to 500, and perform shallow engraving 2 to 3 times. The lines will be both fine and clean.
4. Use pure black vector graphics and reject grayscale
Convert the pattern into pure black and white vectors (SVG/DXF), with the thinest lines reaching 0.05mm. The gray-scale map will make the laser "hesitate", and the details will be blurred instantly.
5. After engraving, gently sweep and frequently wipe the lens
Immediately after engraving, use a soft-bristled brush to remove the toner, and then gently sand along the grain with 600-mesh sandpaper. The pattern will immediately become "high-definition". Before each startup, wipe the laser lens with anhydrous alcohol to prevent dust from blurring the lines.
By following these 5 steps, the human hair and the sharp corners of the patterns can all stand upright on the wood.