This massive-format laser cutter was constructed from scratch for simply $700

When caught between a less expensive but small laser cutter and splurging on a a lot bigger one, Owen Schafer determined as a substitute to only construct one himself. The undertaking began with Schafer sourcing a 40W CO2 laser, which differs from a diode laser in that it makes use of gasoline heated with 16,000 volts to provide a really highly effective beam of sunshine. This had the added aspect impact of needing a water-cooling system because the tube tends to generate ample quantities of warmth.

As soon as the laser and the mandatory reflectors had been sourced, Schafer bought aluminum extrusions and connected them with nook connectors. The pinnacle strikes with the assistance of a gantry, whereby the X-axis slides alongside the Y-axis, and each are pushed by NEMA17 stepper motors and a timing belt. For some added security, he created a fundamental enclosure out of plywood simply in case one thing went unsuitable internally.

Every stepper motor is pushed by an A4988 driver module, and all of them are managed by an Arduino Mega 2560 loaded with the Marlin-based Marlaser laser cutter firmware. He even included a couple of LEDs strips inside the enclosure that help visibility and a easy air flow system for fume extraction.

After producing some toolpaths utilizing Inkscape, the laser was lastly in a position to reduce almost something out of supplies starting from plastic to plywood. You’ll be able to watch extra about how Schafer introduced this cheap laser cutter to life within the video beneath!