Hello I am completely clueless on what all has to be done or what is need to add a laser to the 1515. Can I please get some feedback on where to start and what restrictions adding the laser to the cnc has versus just getting something like the xtool? Interested mostly in laser engraving but would also do some cutting but mostly the engraving, tumblers, etc Thank you
First read through the docs if you are using a Blackbox to control your machine. docs:blackbox-4x:connect-3-wire-laser [OpenBuilds Documentation] If you plan to engrave tumblers, then you will need to get a rotary axis. Also, software like Lightburn (Lightburn V1.4) makes things much easier. I have a dedicated laser cutter/engraver so i can not speak to just adding one to your 1515, but I have a spare diode I was thinking of adding to my current larger machine. I just have not got around to it so can not give much in the way of pros and cons.
Hi, I have the same question. I have Lead1515 and I want to be able to cut acrylic using laser. Someone can advise what is the compatible add-ons i can use with my existing machine to do that
And even then, "cut" is very relative. 5-6w is very little power. You already have a very capable router that will cut that acrylic beautifully and way way faster
I agree as I have cut acrylic using an Oflute bit and it flew threw the material (I cut 1/8 and 3/32). I am mainly interested in the laser from an engraving standpoint but if you are engraving a sheet and then will need to cut just seems more efficient in that scenario if the laser cuts when you done engraving instead of having to switch everything over. I openly admit I am extremely new to all of this so please tell me if I am off on my thinking as I am eager to learn all I can.
A correctly set up machine switches over in seconds. Known offsets between laser and endmill etc makes it easy. Your concept makes sense if you have a 80w, or a 100w laser. Not with a little 5-10w Diode laser. Its just not powerful enough. And you have a way more powerful cutting tool right there. Use the best tool for each part of the job For example
