Something I think I should mention here, for those that are considering Lasers, are some of the dangers involved (and this is, by no means an exhaustive list).
Whilst all machinery has it’s own particular set of dangers, with CNC in particular, the unexpected can always happen so chances should never be taken and nothing should ever be assumed or indeed taken for granted.
When using lasers there are added dangers…
Firstly and most importantly, protective eye-wear (rated for the wavelength of the laser used) must always be worn. Pets, children and visitors should always be kept well clear of the working environment. It can take only a fraction of the time it takes to blink to cause serious and perhaps permanent eye damage.
Many products worked with lasers are combustible and the fire risk is always present. An operating laser machine should never be left un-attended (even for a short period) and suitable fire extinguishers should always be close to hand and available for use if necessary.
Finally there is the unseen danger of toxic fumes and air-borne particles. Adequate fume extraction must be used at all times when a laser machine is in operation.
(Just as an example - PVC, when cut with a laser will give off copious amounts of Chlorine gas which will combine with the moisture in the air to create a form of Hydrochloric Acid. Not only is this extremely toxic for us to inhale it will also cause machine damage. Many other materials can also produce just as nasty by-products).
Personal safety is, in general, a matter of common sense but we must always remind ourselves of the old adage where familiarity breeds contempt.
The fact that we have done something 100 times without incident does not mean it is safe to do so please think ahead, live long and prosper.
Tweakie.
