Laser/Next gen/en

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Lasercutter Replacement

Since our laser cutter is quite old now, discussions have flared up frequently on whether we should replace it with a more modern model. This page was created to collect all the findings of the Metalab Lasercutter Replacement Research Team™.

Maximum possible device dimensions at the current location are 160*110cm.

Option 1: Benchtop

There are some modern benchtop laser cutters available. They're much cheaper and smaller than what we currently have and have a great UI (including things like live preview for placing the cuts using a webcam).

• Laserbox: the downside with this specific one is that is requires a cloud web interface for operation. So, if the VC startup company goes down, the device stops working.
• Glowforge: very similar as the one above, with the same downside.
• Dremel LC40: As far as anlumo has been able to find out, they're only sold in the US for now.
• FSLaser MUSE 3D Vision AF has a locally-hosted web interface, might be interesting. It also has a 3D camera to cut or engrave uneven surfaces! It has a very small work area, though (508*305mm).
• Beambox Pro 600x375mm, 50W, 4.000€ + 60€ shipping from Europe

All of the ones anlumo was able to locate are only 40W. The MUSE has an option to upgrade to 45W, though.

Option 2: Traditional

• Trotec Speedy 400? Also has a fiber laser, which extends the range of possible materials (including 0.5mm aluminium!).
• Metaquip LITE2: Nothing exciting. Only 600*400mm working area, 60W. Software also available for Linux!
• Lasergraaf Vera 130W PREMIUM compact: Needs a bit of creative reshuffling of the working space, because it's too large. Looks pretty capable and cheap though. Supports LightBurn software, which runs on Linux!

Option 3: China Cutter

• This one for example. Free VAT-included shipping within EU!

One major issue for these is that we sometimes need spare parts, like a CO₂ tube replacement. Also, the software is probably even worse than the one by Epilog.

• yes agree, the software could be better :) A friend in NL uses a SH G350 co2 laserengraver for different parts in her mediaart installations. The whole thing plus the software felt very clumsy. The sounds of the machine reminded me of the Epilog after 10 years operation. JoaK (Diskussion) 16:54, 31. Aug. 2020 (CEST)

Option 4: Combination Devices

The best solution would be a device that can do CNC milling, laser cutting/engraving and plasma cutting with the same frame. While this is not really a problem on the technical side, we were unable to find any product for this except some DIY attempts. Going DIY would also be an option, but it's probably a lot of work and involves handling a class 4 laser tube with adequate safety installations.