Wood Laser Cutting: 5 Steps to Success

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"Has anyone ever laser cut wood?"

In this guide, we'll delve into wood laser cutting, covering all aspects from beginning to end! Additionally, we'll include a case study on laser cutting wood bird. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!

wood laser cutting guide

In this article:

Part 1: The Overview of Wood Laser Cutting

1.1 What is Wood Laser Cutting?

Wood laser cutting, also known as laser cutting wood, is a refined method for precisely shaping wood material into various designs, letters, or shapes. Cutting wood with laser, your creative ideas can be transformed into stunning crafts effortlessly.

1.2 How Does Laser Cut Wood?

"Can wood be cut with a laser?" Yes! Laser cutting wood involves the use of a high-powered laser beam that is focused onto the wood's surface. The intense heat generated by the laser beam causes the wood to get cut along the path of the beam, resulting in a clean and precise cut.

Since the laser beam is controlled by computer software, even intricate and complex designs can be cut with high accuracy. Compared to other wood cutting methods, this method produces smooth edges and minimal kerf width, making it perfect for intricate patterns and shapes.

the process of wood laser cutting

1.3 What is Laser Cutting Machine for Wood?

To laser cut Wood, you'll require a laser cutter, which is crucial for streamlining the cutting process and achieving precise results. With various laser cutting machines on the market (like Diode laser engraver, CO2 laser engraver and Fiber laser engraver), many may ask: "What is the best laser to cut wood?" or "What machine do I need to cut wood?"

Actually, it depends on your engraving needs. For home or small-scale wood laser cutting project, diode laser engravers are the best choice. Because these diode laser engraving machines are easy to use and budget-friendly compared with other wood laser cutting machines.

laser engraving machine

💡 Case Study: Laser Cut Wood Bird Within 5 Steps

Preparation checklist for laser cutting wood:

  1. Cutting Material: Wood Boarder
  2. Cutting Machine: Diode Laser Cutter
  3. Cutting Design: Designs, letters, shapes, etc.

The process of laser cutting wood bird is straightforward. So, How long does it take to laser cut wood? Don't worry, just follow these 5 simple steps to get your laser cut wood crafts in a few minutes!

Step 1: Choose Your Material - Wood Board

Selecting the right material is crucial for the laser cut wood. Different materials require specific laser settings to ensure precise cutting. Besides, please remember that it's important to ensure that the wood's material is laser safe to avoid any potential safety hazards.

In this guide, we'll use a case study on laser cutting wood bird!

wood board

Step 2: Choose the Right Laser Cutting Machine for Wood Cutting

Here, we recommend LaserPecker 4 (LP4) that excels wood laser cutting projects.

Step 3: Prepare Your Cutting Design

Use a free graphic design app/software or third-party graphic design tools like photoshop to create or import the shape or design you want to cut on the wood's surface. Consider size, shape, and other details.

laserpecker graphic design app software

Step 4: Set up the Wood Laser Cutting Machine

Firstly, Make sure your cutter is powered on, and then connect your laser cutter to your computer or mobile device using the appropriate interface (USB cable, Bluetooth, etc.)

connect your laserpeckerdevices

Secondly, Open the LaserPecker Design Space and load your design. (formats like JPG/PNG/G-Code/SVG etc are all acceptable)

design for laser cutting

Thirdly, Place the items within the designated working area and check if the laser lens is properly focused. There are two ways to check.

If you choose LaserPecker 4 (LP4), the first method is to use a ruler to measure the distance between the wood's surface and the machine, with a recommended distance of 15cm or 150mm.

Alternatively, you can achieve the correct focal length by judging whether the two red dots emitted by the machine overlap. This ensures precise focusing for optimal cutting & engraving results.

right focal length of laserpecker4

Fourthly, You need to turn on the "Preview" mode to see if the design fits properly on the wood surface. If it doesn't, adjust its size and position to match the dimensions of your material.

laser engraving & cutting preview on target material

Finally, Access the software's laser settings to adjust parameters like power, speed, and resolution according to the wood's properties and design intricacy.

To get the best result, the recommended laserpecker 4 material settings for cutting PVC is 10 W 450 nm; Resolution: 1k; Power: 100%; Depth: 98%; Pass: 1

To explore other recommended laserpecker engraving and cutting parameters, refer to the settings table that applies to any laserpecker machines, including LP1, LP2, LP3, LP4 and LX1.

material settings for laserpecker machines

Step 5: Start Cutting Your Wood With Laser Now

Double-check everything to avoid mistakes. Then, hit the start button and watch the magic happen. The laser brings your design to life. Keep an eye on it, and you're all set!

When operating a laser engraving and cutting machine with a 450 nm blue laser, it's advisable to wear goggles or use a laser protection cover to protect your eyes and body from potential harm, as the blue laser can pose risks.

Additionally, please be mindful that toxic smoke may be emitted during the wood laser engraving process. Wearing a mask or employing an air purifier is essential for safety.

laser cut wood bird

Conclusion

In summary, wood laser cutting offers versatility and precision, transforming wood into intricate designs and functional products with clean edges and intricate patterns. It opens up endless possibilities for artistic expression, industrial manufacturing and personal projects.

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