LaserUser.com Forum (formerly RDWorksLab)

Hi.

I'v been watching the RDWorks Learning Lab videos on YouTube almost since beginning.

I bought a 60x40cm, 80W, 2" lens chinese laser cutter of unknown brand in November 2018. Since then I'v been using it mostly for MDF, plywood and acrylic as well as some LaserMax and similar sign materials.

I'm planning to build a new laser cutter mainly for engraving large signs, cutting larger/thicker plywood as well as cutting and engrave faster. (My current laser is limited to 500mm/s for engraving and if I cut faster than ~18mm/s I get vissible serration.) So far it looks like I will go with a 120x80cm work envelope, a Ruida controller with ethernet, 4" lens and servos for the X and Y axis.

Welcome Emil- it sounds like you may have a sign shop background like me. I have found 400mm/s to be about as fast as it makes sence to go as the overrun on the sides eats into the speed advantage. There is also a limit to how fast a CO2 laser can fire, that is why Russ it going to an RF laser source I believe and I am anxious to see his results. I find that MDF core plywood is much more consistent than the plywood we get here in the States. I have a few cabinet maker customers who will provide me with their off-cuts. Gene