Difference between revisions of "Laser -- BOSS"

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[[File:Level_3_badge.png|alt=|left|frameless|100x100px]]
+
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge used at Pikes Peak Makerspace|left|frameless|100x100px|PPM TRAINING & CERTIFICATION REQUIRED]]
  
'''The Laser Engraver/Cutter Area at Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) consists mostly of Level 3 equipment.'''  
+
'''Our Laser Engraver/Cutter Area at Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) consists mostly of Level 3 equipment.'''
  
Additional training is required to use our Level 3 equipment.
+
Additional PPM training and then certification is required to use any of our Level 3 equipment.
  
 +
Our BOSSLASER cannot be turned on without scanning the RFID card of a member certified in our TESLA Access system.
  
<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#D81F2B">&nbsp;Laser Area&nbsp;</span> [[Laser#Hand Tools|hand tools]] should be marked with <span style="color:#D81F2B">'''red'''</span> tape or paint.
+
[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve '''Boss Laser Check-in and Reservations''']
 
<br>
 
<br>
 
<br>
 
<br>
[[File:BOSS LASER organizer.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER organizer|thumb|350x350px|<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#D81F2B">&nbsp;BOSS LASER Area&nbsp;&nbsp;(05/20/22)&nbsp;<br><br></span>]]
+
<p style="padding:0.2em 0.4em; background:#D81F2B; color:#FFFFFF; font-size:15%;"> &nbsp; </p>
 +
<br>
 
{{Template:Safety}}
 
{{Template:Safety}}
 +
<br>
 +
<p style="padding:0.2em 0.4em;  background:#D81F2B; color:#FFFFFF; font-size:15%;"> &nbsp; </p>
 +
==Classes and Training==
  
 +
===[[New Member Orientation]]===
  
==Classes and Training==
+
=== Area Contact — Mathew Palfenier===
 
 
==='''[[New Member Orientation]]'''===
 
===Area Captain===
 
:'''Lisa MacNicol''' (BOSSLASER)
 
:View all '''[https://wiki.pikespeakmakerspace.org/index.php/About_PPM#PPM_Area_Captains PPM Area Captains]'''
 
  
===[[Area Captain Duties#Laser|Area Captain Duties]]===
+
===Classes & Training===
===Classes===
+
:The Boss Laser Safety and Certification class is offered twice per month.
:Pikes Peak Makerspace announces its [https://www.meetup.com/pikespeakmakerspace/events '''Upcoming events, including classes, on Meetup''']
+
:'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5NpPInh5Z0&t=5s Pikes Peak Makerspace Boss Laser Intro] — external link to PPM YouTube channel'''
 +
:PPM announces its [https://www.meetup.com/pikespeakmakerspace/events '''Upcoming events, including classes, on Meetup''']
  
===Training===
+
==General Use and Cleaning Policies==
:'''Lisa MacNicol''' (BOSSLASER)
+
:*Weights are no longer allowed. Please use the pins to hold down your&nbsp;material.
 +
:*Clean up after use:
 +
:**'''wipe down''' / dust the inside and outside of lid.  Glass cleaner may be used if&nbsp;necessary.
 +
:**'''clean''' out the debris in, on, and around the honeycomb.  Vacuum if&nbsp;necessary.
 +
:**'''dump''' out catch tray.
 +
:**'''empty''' small blue trash can if full.
 +
:**'''organize''' computer area.
 +
:**'''sweep''' floor around the boss area.
 +
:'''''Always leave the space better than when you found it.'''''
  
 +
==Boss-specific Safety Information==
 +
:
 
:'''DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser,''' this will release chlorine gas which is toxic.
 
:'''DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser,''' this will release chlorine gas which is toxic.
 
:
 
:
:'''Boss Laser Safety'''
+
:'''Boss Laser Safety:'''
 
:● NEVER cut PVC (When in doubt, error on the side of caution)
 
:● NEVER cut PVC (When in doubt, error on the side of caution)
 
:● NEVER leave the laser unattended while it is running (Stay in the building)
 
:● NEVER leave the laser unattended while it is running (Stay in the building)
 
:● Use only approved materials
 
:● Use only approved materials
: ● Leave lid closed for a few moments after your job is completed
+
:● Leave lid closed for a few moments after your job is completed to allow for proper ventilation
:● Avoid using 100% power
+
:● Up to 80% power is allowed
 
:● Avoid reflective material
 
:● Avoid reflective material
:● Keep work area interior and exterior clean
+
:● Ensure the work area interior and exterior is clean before and after your work
: ● Keep the exhaust fan and chiller running while the laser is in use
+
:● Keep the exhaust fan and chiller running while the laser is in use
:● Make sure Zing Laser isn’t running before turning off fan<br>
+
:● Make sure Zing Laser isn’t running before turning off fan
:ALWAYS ensure the work area interior and exterior is clean before and after your work.
+
==Troubleshooting and Common Issues==
:<br>'''[[LightBurn Tips#Curated Links|Watch these videos on LightBurn BEFORE (BOSSLASER) CLASS!]]'''
+
'''Didn’t cut through?'''
:
 
:'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5NpPInh5Z0&t=5s Pikes Peak Makerspace Boss Laser Intro] -- external link to PPM YouTube channel'''
 
<br>
 
<gallery>
 
File:Boss Laser Orientation class handout.pdf|alt=Boss Laser Orientation class handout|<center>'''Boss Laser Orientation class handout.pdf'''</center>
 
</gallery>
 
:Be sure to log your Boss Laser job using the new SIGN-IN SHEET
 
  
===Common Issues (Boss Laser Orientation)===
+
:It is a good practice to leave the material and laser head in position for inspection.  You can, at that point, attempt another pass through if nothing has been moved.
:'''Didn’t cut through?'''
 
  
::It is a good practice to leave the workpiece in position and inspect for through cut before moving it.
+
:You should not start your job until you are confident about your settings by doing multiple tests.
:: You can often close the lid, run an additional pass, and get all the way through.
 
  
:: You should not start your job until you are confident about your settings by doing multiple tests.
+
'''Taking too long?'''
  
'''Taking too long?'''
+
:Check settings for “flood fill” or “fill shapes individually”. Use the preview feature to know if that will help.
  
::Check settings for “flood fill” or “fill shapes individually”. Use the preview feature to know if that will help.
+
'''Auto-focus malfunction? (The bed is not moving during auto-focus, or the bed is moving down during auto focus)'''
  
=== Events ===
+
:The laser head may be sticking.  GENTLY press up and down with the palm of your hand until back in place.
<gallery>
 
File:TOSC tour 2021-11-24.jpg|alt=TOSC tour 2021-11-24|<center>TOSC tour<br>(2021-11-24)</center>
 
</gallery>
 
  
===Additional Help===
+
:If that did not fix the problem, please contact Cap'n Mat on Slack.
:Use the PPM Slack channel #laser-cutter
 
<br>
 
{{Template:Historical}}
 
'''&bull;''' [[Laser Cutting Material Table‏‎]] (15:41, 21 May 2015)
 
  
'''&bull;''' [[Laser Cutting Acrylic‏‎]] (16:31, 24 November 2015)
+
'''The laser head is moving and blowing air but the laser is not firing?'''
  
 +
: Make sure the boss chiller has been turned on.
  
 
==Equipment Lists==
 
==Equipment Lists==
  
===BOSSLASER ===
+
===BOSSLASER===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
+
{| class="wikitable"
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:center; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important;; background-color:#D81F2B; color:#ffffff;"
+
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:left; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; background-color:#D81F2B; color:#ffffff;"
| style="vertical-align:middle;" |'''Picture'''
+
| style="vertical-align:middle;" |Picture
|'''Item'''
+
|Item
|'''Manufacturer'''
+
|Manufacturer/<br>Model
|'''Model<br>Number'''
+
|Reference<br>Materials
|'''Estimated<br>Value'''
 
|'''Manual'''
 
|'''Owner'''
 
|'''Status'''
 
|'''Problem<br>Description'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|[[File:BOSS LASER.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER engraver|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|[[File:BOSS LASER.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER engraver|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|'''Boss 150 Watt'''  
 
|'''Boss 150 Watt'''  
'''CO<sub>2</sub> Laser'''<br>
+
'''CO<sub>2</sub> Laser'''  
 +
 
 +
'''Cutter/Engraver'''
 
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge|left|frameless|41x41px]]
 
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge|left|frameless|41x41px]]
|[https://www.bosslaser.com Boss]
+
|BOSS
|[https://www.bosslaser.com/laser-machines/boss-hp-3655 LS-3655]
+
LS-3655
|<p style="text-align:right;">$20,000</p>
+
|[https://bosslaser.com/wp-content/uploads/QM-855-901-LS-Manual-003.pdf Operators Manual]
|[https://admin.bosslaser.com/assets/cfcc74b8-ec51-4445-9e87-bc4955308bec Operators Manual]
+
|-
|PPM
+
|[[File:Industrial Chiller.jpg|alt=Industrial Chiller|center|frameless|150x150px]]
|working (12/28/21)
+
|'''Industrial Water Chiller'''
|
+
|S&A<br>CW&#8209;5000DG
 +
|[https://wiki.ehlab.uk/_media/cw-5000_5200_industrial_chiller_maintenance_manual.pdf Maintenance Manual]
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[https://www.amazon.com/Genuine-CW-5000DG-Industrial-Chiller-Engraving/dp/B088LDCF6L?th=1 CW&#8209;5000DG]<br>(Amazon description)
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|'''OUTFEED TABLE'''
 
|Mike Mike
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
|working (12/28/21)
 
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Industrial Chiller.jpg|alt=Industrial Chiller|center|frameless|150x150px]]
+
|[[File:Compressor.jpg|alt=Compressor|center|frameless|150x150px]]
|'''Industrial Chiller'''
+
|'''Compressor'''
|S&A
 
|CW&#8209;5000DG
 
 
|
 
|
|[https://wiki.ehlab.uk/_media/cw-5000_5200_industrial_chiller_maintenance_manual.pdf Maintenance Manual]
 
|PPM
 
|working (12/28/21)
 
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Compressor.jpg|alt=Compressor|center|frameless|150x150px]]
+
|[[File:BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE|center|frameless|150x150px]]
|'''Compressor'''
+
|'''OUTFEED TABLE'''
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 +
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:left; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; color:#000000;"
 +
| style="vertical-align:middle;" |
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
 
|
 
|
 +
|}
 +
 +
===BOSSLASER Computer===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:left; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; background-color:#D81F2B; color:#ffffff;"
 +
|Item
 +
|Application<br>Software
 +
|Manufacturer/<br>Model
 +
|System<br>Software
 +
|-
 +
|'''Computer'''
 +
i7 3.4GHz
 +
|[https://lightburnsoftware.com/ LightBurn]
 
|
 
|
 +
|Microsoft Windows 10 Pro
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:BOSS LASER Computer.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER Computer|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|'''Computer'''
 
|HP
 
|h8-1117c
 
|<p style="text-align:right;">$250</p>
 
 
|
 
|
|PPM
+
|
|working (12/28/21)
+
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|'''Monitor'''
 
|
 
|
|'''27" Monitor'''
+
| Dell
|Dell
 
 
|
 
|
|<p style="text-align:right;">$100</p>
+
|-
 +
|'''keyboard (01/22/23)'''
 
|
 
|
|PPM
+
|Dell
|working (12/28/21)
 
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|'''external USB speakers'''
 
|
 
|
|'''rotary attachment for Boss&nbsp;Laser'''
+
|Dell
 
|
 
|
 +
|-
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
|?
 
 
|
 
|
|-
 
|'''Picture'''
 
|'''Item'''
 
|'''Manufacturer'''
 
|'''Model<br>Number'''
 
|'''Estimated<br>Value'''
 
|'''Manual'''
 
|'''Owner'''
 
|'''Status'''
 
|'''Problem<br>Description'''
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
 +
:'''''Design workstation ONLY!'''''
 +
:'''''No Facebook, social media, or random browsing.'''''
  
===Hand Tools===
+
=== Hand Tools===
:<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#D81F2B">&nbsp;Laser Area&nbsp;</span> hand tools should be marked with <span style="color:#D81F2B">'''red'''</span> tape or paint.
+
:'''Laser Area''' hand tools should be marked with <span style="color:#D81F2B">'''red'''</span> tape or paint.
 
:Return all tools to their proper location after use. This rule applies to all areas of our Makerspace.
 
:Return all tools to their proper location after use. This rule applies to all areas of our Makerspace.
  
===[[Donations Received]]===
+
===Equipment Reservations===
 +
 
 +
*Reserve 24 Hours in Advance to Guarantee Equipment.
 +
*Unreserved equipment is first come first serve.
 +
*Reservations are given up after 15 minute no show.
 +
 
 +
'''If you don't have a reservation:'''
 +
 
 +
*'''Be sure your job does not run longer than an upcoming reservation or you are expected to stop your job.'''
 +
*'''[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve Use this form to sign in (No more paper)]'''
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
[[Donations Received|'''Donations Received''']]
  
===[[Wish List#Laser -- BOSS|Wish List]]===
+
[[Wish List#Laser -- BOSS|'''Wish List''']]
 +
:Pikes Peak Makerspace is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, so we can provide a receipt for any donations you make.
  
 
==Benefits and Policies==
 
==Benefits and Policies==
 
{{Member Benefits}}
 
{{Member Benefits}}
===[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve-equipment Equipment Reservations]===
+
===Materials===
=== Materials===
 
 
:'''DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser,''' this will release chlorine gas which is toxic.
 
:'''DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser,''' this will release chlorine gas which is toxic.
 
:'''Avoid reflective material.'''
 
:'''Avoid reflective material.'''
:'''Donate for "Wood Sheet for Laser" via PayPal:  [https://bit.ly/ppmstuff bit.ly/ppmstuff]'''
+
:'''''Donate'' for "Wood Sheet for Laser" via PayPal:  [https://bit.ly/ppmstuff bit.ly/ppmstuff]'''
:'''Or, leave donations in a black payment box, or use a QR code.'''
+
:'''''Or, leave donations in a black payment box, or use a QR code.'''''
 +
 
 +
{{Template:Historical}}
 +
:'''&bull;''' [[Laser Cutting Material Table‏‎]] (15:41, 21 May 2015)
 +
:'''&bull;''' [[Laser Cutting Acrylic‏‎]] (16:31, 24 November 2015)
 +
 
 +
{{Red Tags}}
  
===[[New Member Orientation#Red Tags|Red Tags]]===
+
==Related Software==
{{Scrap and Trash}}
+
At home LightBurn subscriptions can be purchased at a discounted rate for being a PPM member. The discount code is saved as a Pinned Message in our 'laser-cutter' channel in Slack.
  
==Software==
+
'''''Please note:'''''  Your at home subscription is unique to only you. You will receive an email from LightBurn with your unique registration key. Make&nbsp;note of that key because you will need it again if you renew your subscription. PPM&nbsp;does not have access to your registration&nbsp;key.
  
 
===Design Software===
 
===Design Software===
:'''[[Adobe Illustrator Tips|Adobe Illustrator]]''' (Windows 10 and Macintosh)
+
:'''[[LightBurn Tips]]'''
:'''[[Adobe Photoshop Tips|Adobe Photoshop]]''' (Windows 10 and Macintosh)
+
:'''[[Canva Tips]]'''
:'''[[Inkscape Tips|Inkscape]]''' (multi-platform)
+
:'''[[Adobe Illustrator Tips]]'''
:'''[[Procreate app Tips|Procreate]] ''' (Tips, Training and Meetups)
+
:'''[[Adobe Photoshop Tips]]'''
 +
:'''[[Inkscape Tips]]'''
 +
:'''[[Procreate app Tips]]'''
  
 
===Printing Software===
 
===Printing Software===
:'''[[LightBurn Tips|LightBurn]]''' (for BOSSLASER)
+
:'''[https://lightburnsoftware.com/ LightBurn Software]''' — home page
  
 
==Member Showcase==
 
==Member Showcase==
 
+
<gallery widths="200" heights="125">
===Boss Laser Photo Gallery===
+
File:AI generated bike artwork by Ben.jpg|alt=AI generated artwork laser engraved by Ben Yakura (04/21/24)|'''AI generated artwork<br>laser engraved<br>by Ben Yakura<br>(04/21/24)'''
<gallery>
+
File:Robot parts by ChrisS.jpg|alt=Robot parts cut on BOSSLASER by Chris Stevens|'''Robot parts(!)<br>designed and cut<br>by Chris Stevens<br>(07/16/23)'''
File:Wall art Garden of the Gods.jpg|alt=Garden of the Gods wall art|<center>Garden of the Gods<br>48"x24"<br>(by Robbie Cochran)</center>
+
File:Rubber stamp DUNN.jpg|alt=Rubber stamp and resin inlay|'''Rubber stamp<br>and resin inlay<br>by Brandon Hall'''
File:Station 11 Battalion 2 sign.jpg|alt=Station 11 Battalion 2 sign|<center>Station 11 Battalion 2<br>backlit district map<br>(by Joey Callahan)</center>
+
File:Station 11 Battalion 2 sign.jpg|alt=Station 11 Battalion 2 sign|'''Station 11 Battalion 2<br>backlit district map<br>by Joey Callahan'''
File:Laser engraved panels.jpg|alt=Laser engraved panels|<center>Laser engraved panels<br>(by Uncle Mike Mike)</center>
+
File:IRON GIANT 1.jpg|alt=THE IRON GIANT 14"x24" minimalist wall art|'''THE IRON GIANT<br>minimalist wall art 14"x24"<br>by Ben S.'''
File:Wall art INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS.jpg|alt=INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS wall art|<center>INGLOURIOUS BASTERDS<br>minimalist wall art<br>(by Ben Severson)</center>
 
File:IRON GIANT 1.jpg|alt=THE IRON GIANT 14"x24" minimalist wall art|<center>THE IRON GIANT<br>minimalist wall art<br> 14"x24"<br>(by Ben Severson)</center>
 
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
 
{{Template:Showcase_blurb}}
 
{{Template:Showcase_blurb}}
  
==See Also==
+
== Related Pages ==
=== [[Laser|Laser -- Epilog]] ===
+
Links to related PPM Wiki pages:
  
==Curated Links==
+
:'''[[LightBurn Tips]]'''
:'''[https://www.imag-r.com/ ImagR] -- Prepare your image for laser engraving'''
+
:[[Laser|<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#D81F2B">&nbsp;&nbsp;'''Laser — Epilog Zing'''&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>]]
 +
:[[CNC|<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#2B78BE">&nbsp;&nbsp;'''CNC Router Table'''&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>]]
  
==Other Fun Stuff==
+
== Hand-Curated Links ==
 +
Links to member-recommended external sites:
 +
:'''[https://www.imag-r.com/ ImagR] — Prepare your image for laser engraving'''
 
:'''Cut boxes with a laser cutter: [https://www.makercase.com/ MakerCase] or [https://hackaday.io/project/10649-boxespy Boxes.py]'''
 
:'''Cut boxes with a laser cutter: [https://www.makercase.com/ MakerCase] or [https://hackaday.io/project/10649-boxespy Boxes.py]'''
<br>
+
 
<hr>
+
==Additional Help==
 +
:Use the PPM Slack channel #laser-cutter
 +
:[[How To Slack#PPM Channel Names and Descriptions|'''List of all PPM Slack channels''']]
 +
: Note that we have a Slack channel (#job-board) for members to post, discuss, or accept job opportunities either within PPM or from the&nbsp;community.
 
{{Template:Footer}}
 
{{Template:Footer}}
 +
{{Template:Ideas into reality}}
 +
<p style="padding:0.2em 0.4em;  background:#D81F2B; color:#FFFFFF; font-size:15%;"> &nbsp; </p>
 +
<!--Woodshop-->

Revision as of 21:37, 21 April 2024

Level 3 badge used at Pikes Peak Makerspace

Our Laser Engraver/Cutter Area at Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) consists mostly of Level 3 equipment.

Additional PPM training and then certification is required to use any of our Level 3 equipment.

Our BOSSLASER cannot be turned on without scanning the RFID card of a member certified in our TESLA Access system.

Boss Laser Check-in and Reservations

 


Safety First

Members must know the following information:

In case of emergency, call 911.
Our physical location is:
735 East Pikes Peak Avenue
Colorado Springs, CO 80903
use this when ordering pizza or an ambulance

PPM Fire Escape Plan

Fire Escape Plan maps are posted throughout the Makerspace.
There are 7 fire extinguishers on the fire escape plan map. Review the PPM Fire Escape Plan for locations.

First Aid

There is a FIRST AID Supply Cabinet in our Kitchen Area.
FIRST AID Kits are available in four areas: the Kitchen, Metal Shop, Wood Shop and CNC Room.

Eye Wash Stations

Emergency Eye & Face Wash Stations are mounted in four areas: the Kitchen, Wood Shop, CNC Room and Vented Room.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wear protective equipment in all Wood and Metal Shop Areas.
Wear gloves when using Isopropyl Alcohol and other cleaners.

Hazardous Chemicals

All hazardous chemicals must be stored in the yellow hazardous chemical storage cabinet located in the Vented Room.
Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) information of unknown products before use.
SDS information is available via the QR code on the hazardous chemical storage cabinet or this spreadsheet.
Do not bring dangerous chemicals to the makerspace.
Spray paint, stains, and other approved items must be stored in the hazardous chemical storage cabinet in the Vented Room.
Please DO NOT paint indoors.



Impairment

The use of PPM equipment requires you to be alert, attentive, and focused.
Do not use any PPM work area, or any PPM tools, if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol.


 

Classes and Training

New Member Orientation

Area Contact — Mathew Palfenier

Classes & Training

The Boss Laser Safety and Certification class is offered twice per month.
Pikes Peak Makerspace Boss Laser Intro — external link to PPM YouTube channel
PPM announces its Upcoming events, including classes, on Meetup

General Use and Cleaning Policies

  • Weights are no longer allowed. Please use the pins to hold down your material.
  • Clean up after use:
    • wipe down / dust the inside and outside of lid. Glass cleaner may be used if necessary.
    • clean out the debris in, on, and around the honeycomb. Vacuum if necessary.
    • dump out catch tray.
    • empty small blue trash can if full.
    • organize computer area.
    • sweep floor around the boss area.
Always leave the space better than when you found it.

Boss-specific Safety Information

DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser, this will release chlorine gas which is toxic.
Boss Laser Safety:
● NEVER cut PVC (When in doubt, error on the side of caution)
● NEVER leave the laser unattended while it is running (Stay in the building)
● Use only approved materials
● Leave lid closed for a few moments after your job is completed to allow for proper ventilation
● Up to 80% power is allowed
● Avoid reflective material
● Ensure the work area interior and exterior is clean before and after your work
● Keep the exhaust fan and chiller running while the laser is in use
● Make sure Zing Laser isn’t running before turning off fan

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

Didn’t cut through?

It is a good practice to leave the material and laser head in position for inspection. You can, at that point, attempt another pass through if nothing has been moved.
You should not start your job until you are confident about your settings by doing multiple tests.

Taking too long?

Check settings for “flood fill” or “fill shapes individually”. Use the preview feature to know if that will help.

Auto-focus malfunction? (The bed is not moving during auto-focus, or the bed is moving down during auto focus)

The laser head may be sticking. GENTLY press up and down with the palm of your hand until back in place.
If that did not fix the problem, please contact Cap'n Mat on Slack.

The laser head is moving and blowing air but the laser is not firing?

Make sure the boss chiller has been turned on.

Equipment Lists

BOSSLASER

Picture Item Manufacturer/
Model
Reference
Materials
BOSS LASER engraver
Boss 150 Watt

CO2 Laser

Cutter/Engraver

Level 3 badge
BOSS

LS-3655

Operators Manual
Industrial Chiller
Industrial Water Chiller S&A
CW‑5000DG
Maintenance Manual


CW‑5000DG
(Amazon description)

Compressor
Compressor
BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE
OUTFEED TABLE

BOSSLASER Computer

Item Application
Software
Manufacturer/
Model
System
Software
Computer

i7 3.4GHz

LightBurn Microsoft Windows 10 Pro
Monitor Dell
keyboard (01/22/23) Dell
external USB speakers Dell
Design workstation ONLY!
No Facebook, social media, or random browsing.

Hand Tools

Laser Area hand tools should be marked with red tape or paint.
Return all tools to their proper location after use. This rule applies to all areas of our Makerspace.

Equipment Reservations

  • Reserve 24 Hours in Advance to Guarantee Equipment.
  • Unreserved equipment is first come first serve.
  • Reservations are given up after 15 minute no show.

If you don't have a reservation:


Donations Received

Wish List

Pikes Peak Makerspace is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, so we can provide a receipt for any donations you make.

Benefits and Policies

PPM members enjoy discounts at the following local merchants:
(bring proof of membership)
Company Website Benefit Directions to
Logo WOODCRAFT
Woodcraft of Colorado Springs 10% discount    4438 Austin Bluffs Parkway
Logo CO Lumber
CO Lumber Specialties 10% discount 3636 Stone Avenue
Logo General Air
GENERAL AIR 10% discount 3031 N Nevada Ave.
Logo ACE
ACE Hardware Uintah Gardens 10% discount 1830 W Uintah Street
Map of stores that provide PPM member discounts
Map of helpful local resources curated by our makers
At home LightBurn subscriptions can be purchased at a discounted rate for being a PPM member.
The discount code is saved as a Pinned Message in our 'laser-cutter' channel in Slack.

Materials

DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser, this will release chlorine gas which is toxic.
Avoid reflective material.
Donate for "Wood Sheet for Laser" via PayPal: bit.ly/ppmstuff
Or, leave donations in a black payment box, or use a QR code.


Warn.png The following pages contain historical information. The pages are provided for reference only.

Laser Cutting Material Table‏‎ (15:41, 21 May 2015)
Laser Cutting Acrylic‏‎ (16:31, 24 November 2015)

Red Tags

If equipment needs repairs, place a Red Tag on it and report it via the Pikes Peak Makerspace Slack channel #red-tags-issues
This advises others on the malfunctioning equipment and ensures that actions can be taken to service/repair the equipment.

Related Software

At home LightBurn subscriptions can be purchased at a discounted rate for being a PPM member. The discount code is saved as a Pinned Message in our 'laser-cutter' channel in Slack.

Please note:  Your at home subscription is unique to only you. You will receive an email from LightBurn with your unique registration key. Make note of that key because you will need it again if you renew your subscription. PPM does not have access to your registration key.

Design Software

LightBurn Tips
Canva Tips
Adobe Illustrator Tips
Adobe Photoshop Tips
Inkscape Tips
Procreate app Tips

Printing Software

LightBurn Software — home page

Member Showcase

For even more member projects, visit our #showcase channel on Slack, or follow our social media links.

Related Pages

Links to related PPM Wiki pages:

LightBurn Tips
  Laser — Epilog Zing  
  CNC Router Table  

Hand-Curated Links

Links to member-recommended external sites:

ImagR — Prepare your image for laser engraving
Cut boxes with a laser cutter: MakerCase or Boxes.py

Additional Help

Use the PPM Slack channel #laser-cutter
List of all PPM Slack channels
Note that we have a Slack channel (#job-board) for members to post, discuss, or accept job opportunities either within PPM or from the community.

Search the PPM Wiki — include Content pages as well as Multimedia.

Contact Us if you cannot find your answer here on our Wiki or if you notice any information that is outdated.

Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) is dedicated to supporting our maker community in their creative processes by providing shared space, shared tools, materials, software, and a knowledge base to turn their ideas into reality.