ULS VLS 6.60 Laser Cutter
This page is currently under construction.
Description
The Universal Laser Systems VLS 6.60 is a laser cutter / engraver
Safety Concerns
The laser cutter is one of the least dangerous tools in the sandbox when used properly by properly trained makers following our SOPs and cutting only approved materials. Used improperly, laser cutters present several serious risks that need to be understood by all makers. The most important safety concerns specific to laser cutter use are:
Fire
In normal use a laser cutter is able to cut and engrave combustible materials such as wood and paper with little risk of fire. The air assist system and ventilation system work together to keep air flowing across the recently cut surface, moving hot combustion gasses away from the work. If these systems aren’t working correctly small flare ups may occur. Scraps from earlier jobs can increase risk of fire.
Fumes
Since a laser cutter cuts by burning or vaporizing material it is critical to be aware of what materials you are using and to understand the potential for some materials to create irritating, harmful, and potentially lethal by-products of combustion. The laser ventilation system is important but is not designed for the evacuation of hazardous fumes and is not a substitute for identification of unsafe materials. One very common but hazardous material is PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) which is found in many plastics and emits poisonous chlorine gas when cut. If staff is unable to identify a material as laser-safe you will not attempt to use it in our laser cutters.
Laser Radiation
The danger of injury from laser radiation is very low when correctly operated. Our laser cutters are classified as Class 1 laser devices, meaning they are considered safe for use in a non-industrial environment without eye protection. This certification indicates that the machines have safety mechanisms intended to ensure the hazardous Class 4 laser inside the machine cannot emit dangerous laser radiation. In other words, the safety implied by a Class 1 certification is only accurate when the device is operated with all safety interlocks functioning and all doors and covers in place.
It is never permitted to operate a laser cutter with any interlock bypassed to override a safety feature.
While our laser cutters protect your vision from laser radiation, the cutting process does produce an intense light. Looking at this bright light for extended periods of time can cause damage to your vision.
Training
Use of this tool requires the completion of a safety and usage training module. This training may be found on the Sandbox Canvas course In this module If this link does not work for you, ensure that you are enrolled in the course by going to ter.ps/Learn2Make and clicking on the 'Join this Course' or 'Enroll' button.
Self-training via this wiki, user manuals, or other sources is encouraged but does not substitute for the online training module. Students found using this tool without completing the Canvas training module are subject to disciplinary action which may include termination of Sandbox access.
Tips & Tricks
Accessories
- Rotary Accessory
- Focus Gauge
- Thickness Gauge
Manuals
Manufacturer's Web Site
Specifications
- Laser Power: 60 Watts
- Laser Material Processing Area (W x H): 32 x 18 in (813 x 457 mm)
- Maximum Part Size (W x H x D): 37 x 23 x 9 in (940 x 584 x 229 mm)
- Rotary Capacity Max Diameter: 8 in (203 mm)
- Motorized Z Axis Lifting Capacity 40 lbs (18 kg)
- Available Focus Lenses
- 2.0 in (50 mm)
- HPDFO™ (High Power Density Focusing Optics)
- Laser Platform Interface Panel Five button keypad
- Computer Requirements Requires dedicated PC with Windows® 7/8/10 32/64 bit and one available USB port (2.0 or higher)
- Optics Protection Available with Optional Air Assist
- Cabinet Style Free-Standing
- Overall Dimension (W x H x D) 44 x 39 x 36 in (1118 x 991 x 914 mm)
- Weight 325 lbs (147 kg)
- Power Requirements
- 110V/10A
- 220V-240V/5A
- Exhaust Requirements
- Two 4 in (102 mm) ports
- 500 CFM @ 6 in static pressure (850 m3/hr at 1.5 kPa)