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Show"N"Tell ( What you have made with your CNC machine.) / Re: My first attempts at laser engraving.
« on: May 25, 2009, 09:27:34 AM »
Hi Mark,
Thanks for your input on this thread.
I have a 'Q Switch' on my YAG laser which does as you say bend the beam but It is too large for this project also it is designed specifically for 1064 nm and not a 655 nm red laser. I will check ebay more often to see if anything comes up.
After much experimentation I have now decided to use a shutter system for beam on/off which is driven by a small 4 position stepper motor (couldn't find a galvo without having to buy a disco light and stripping it for the parts) linked to the Z axis direction signal. It is quite fast in operation, performs like a galvo and seems OK. I am using PRF modulation of a 20nS pulse for control of the diode power output but am still experimenting with different pulse widths and modulation circuits.
To me, probably the most surprising thing about this project is that low power lasers do have useful applications with CNC machines.
Best regards,
Tweakie.
Thanks for your input on this thread.
I have a 'Q Switch' on my YAG laser which does as you say bend the beam but It is too large for this project also it is designed specifically for 1064 nm and not a 655 nm red laser. I will check ebay more often to see if anything comes up.
After much experimentation I have now decided to use a shutter system for beam on/off which is driven by a small 4 position stepper motor (couldn't find a galvo without having to buy a disco light and stripping it for the parts) linked to the Z axis direction signal. It is quite fast in operation, performs like a galvo and seems OK. I am using PRF modulation of a 20nS pulse for control of the diode power output but am still experimenting with different pulse widths and modulation circuits.
To me, probably the most surprising thing about this project is that low power lasers do have useful applications with CNC machines.
Best regards,
Tweakie.