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When using a CO2 laser machine, one of the most common problems is to achieve the highest possible cutting or engraving quality without additional post—processing. This is especially true when working with plywood, a material widely used in various industries for decorative and functional purposes. In this article, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about working with plywood and provide practical tips to help you increase productivity, reduce production time, and increase your market competitiveness.
How to reduce carbon deposits
Carbon deposits are one of the main problems when cutting plywood. To avoid its formation, it is necessary to monitor the quality of the air supply system (blowing). We recommend using a laser machine equipped with a blowing power of at least 1.5-2 atm. This helps to prevent darkening of the edge, overheating and the formation of unwanted residues, which is especially important when cutting complex shapes or materials with a thickness of 6 mm or more.
For example, all Wattsan CO2 machines, starting from model 6090 and higher, are equipped with a reduced diameter nozzle that can withstand operating pressures up to 6 atm with a maximum tolerance of 10 atm. In addition, polyurethane ducts and reinforced pipe connections eliminate the risk of rupture, ensuring stable operation at high pressure.
How to improve engraving quality
While cutting requires a strong airflow, the quality of engraving often improves when the air pressure is reduced. The wider nozzle diameter provides a softer air flow, which helps to avoid displacement of light combustion residues and prevents them from settling on the workpiece. Large-area machines such as Wattsan 2030, 1610 and 1290 are well suited for both cutting and engraving. Meanwhile, compact models such as Wattsan 0503 and 0203 are ideal for small-format work, especially when high-precision engraving is required.
How to choose the right laser tube power
The power of the laser tube directly affects the cutting performance. The general rule is that every 10 watts of laser power can cut 1 mm of plywood. For example, an 80W laser tube can technically cut 8 mm thick plywood. However, to extend the life of the tube, it is recommended to use it at no more than 80% of its full capacity. In practice, an 80W tube should be used to cut plywood with a thickness of no more than 6 mm.
Remember that optimal cutting results are achieved with the right ratio of speed and power. If the speed is too low or the power is too high, the edges may burn or darken. In addition, natural defects in plywood, such as knots, can make it difficult to cut evenly at standard settings. For smoother and more consistent results, always use high-quality plywood.
How to cut oversized sheets of plywood
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When working with sheets that exceed the working area of your machine, it is better to pre-cut the plywood into smaller pieces. However, if it is necessary to use full-size sheets, it is strongly recommended to use neodymium magnets. They help keep the material smooth and stable, especially when engraving or cutting thin plywood, when defocusing the laser beam can become a problem.
What causes carbon deposits on the back side of the plywood?
Carbon deposits on the back of plywood are usually formed for two main reasons:
- Unsuitable lamella material: if the machine’s lamellas are not made of anodized aluminum, they may reflect the laser beam, causing burns and plaque formation on the underside of the workpiece.
- Excessive power consumption: pperating the laser at high power (more than 80% of the tube’s power) not only shortens the tube’s service life, but also increases the risk of charring and deposits on the back.
To reduce these effects, make sure that the optics are clean, the slats are anodized, and the cooling system is working properly throughout operation.
Conclusion
By paying attention to machine configuration, material quality, and operating parameters, you can significantly improve the results of working with plywood on a CO2 laser machine. Reducing carbon deposits, choosing the right power, and keeping optics clean will not only improve product quality, but also extend the service life of your equipment.
We hope that these tips will help you optimize your workflow and achieve professional and stable results in every job. Laser accuracy begins with focusing on details.
