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 PPM 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 T.E.S.L.A. 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>]]
+
{{Template:Contact Us}}
 +
 
 +
<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==
 +
:The Boss Laser Safety and Certification class is offered twice per month.
 +
:PPM announces its [https://www.meetup.com/pikespeakmakerspace/events '''Upcoming events, including classes, on Meetup''']
 +
 +
==Training==
 +
:'''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5NpPInh5Z0&t=5s Pikes Peak Makerspace Boss Laser Intro] — PPM YouTube channel'''
 +
 +
==General Use ==
 +
*'''Do not accidently change the brass knobs on the top of the laser as they control the mirror alignment.'''
 +
*Weights are no longer allowed to hold down material.
 +
*Use pins to hold down your&nbsp;material.
 +
*If not enough pins are available, use Slack to message the Area Contact, or discuss on the #laser-cutter channel.
 +
 +
==Cleaning Policies ==
 +
'''''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.
  
==Classes and Training==
+
:☐ '''Sweep''' floor around the boss area.
  
==='''[[New Member Orientation]]'''===
+
'''''Always leave the space better than when you found it.'''''
===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]]===
+
==Boss-specific Safety Information==
===Classes===
 
:Pikes Peak Makerspace announces its  [https://www.meetup.com/pikespeakmakerspace/events '''Upcoming events, including classes, on Meetup''']
 
  
===Training===
+
'''DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser,''' this will release chlorine gas which is&nbsp;toxic.
:'''Lisa MacNicol''' (BOSSLASER)
 
  
:'''DO NOT cut materials with PVC on either laser,''' this will release chlorine gas which is toxic.
+
:NEVER cut PVC (When in doubt, error on the side of caution)
:
+
:☐ Avoid reflective material (avoid cutting or engraving compact discs, for example)
:'''Boss Laser Safety'''
+
:☐ Use only approved materials
:● NEVER cut PVC (When in doubt, error on the side of caution)
+
:☐ NEVER leave the laser unattended while it is running (Stay in the&nbsp;building)
:NEVER leave the laser unattended while it is running (Stay in the building)
+
: Leave lid closed for a few moments after your job is completed to allow for proper&nbsp;ventilation
:● Use only approved materials
+
:☐ Up to 80% power is allowed
: ● Leave lid closed for a few moments after your job is completed
+
:☐ Ensure the work area interior and exterior is clean before and after your&nbsp;work
:● Avoid using 100% power
+
: Keep the exhaust fan and chiller running while the laser is in&nbsp;use
:● Avoid reflective material
+
: Make sure Zing Laser isn’t running before turning off&nbsp;fan
:● Keep work area interior and exterior clean
 
: 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>
 
:ALWAYS ensure the work area interior and exterior is clean before and after your work.
 
:<br>'''[[LightBurn Tips#Curated Links|Watch these videos on LightBurn BEFORE (BOSSLASER) CLASS!]]'''
 
:
 
:'''[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)===
+
==Troubleshooting and Common Issues==
:'''Didn’t cut through?'''
+
:  
  
::It is a good practice to leave the workpiece in position and inspect for through cut before moving it.
+
: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&nbsp;moved.
:: 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.
+
: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&nbsp;help.
 +
 
 +
'''Auto-focus malfunction? (The bed is not moving during auto-focus, or the bed is moving down during auto&nbsp;focus)'''
 +
 
 +
:The laser head may be sticking. GENTLY press up and down with the palm of your hand until back in&nbsp;place.
 +
:If that did not fix the problem, please post a message on Slack.
  
=== Events ===
+
'''The laser head is moving and blowing air but the laser is not firing?'''
<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===
+
:Make sure the boss chiller has been turned&nbsp;on.
:Use the PPM Slack channel #laser-cutter
 
  
== 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
|'''Model<br>Number'''
+
|Model
|'''Estimated<br>Value'''
+
|Resources
|'''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
 
|working (12/28/21)
 
|
 
|-
 
|[[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:Industrial Chiller.jpg|alt=Industrial Chiller|center|frameless|150x150px]]
|'''Industrial Chiller'''
+
|'''Industrial Water Chiller'''
 
|S&A
 
|S&A
 
|CW&#8209;5000DG
 
|CW&#8209;5000DG
|
 
 
|[https://wiki.ehlab.uk/_media/cw-5000_5200_industrial_chiller_maintenance_manual.pdf Maintenance Manual]
 
|[https://wiki.ehlab.uk/_media/cw-5000_5200_industrial_chiller_maintenance_manual.pdf Maintenance Manual]
|PPM
+
 
|working (12/28/21)
+
 
|
+
[https://www.amazon.com/Genuine-CW-5000DG-Industrial-Chiller-Engraving/dp/B088LDCF6L?th=1 CW&#8209;5000DG]<br>(Amazon description)
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:Compressor.jpg|alt=Compressor|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|'''Compressor'''
 
|
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
|[[File:BOSS LASER Computer.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER Computer|center|frameless|150x150px]]
+
|[[File:Compressor.jpg|alt=Compressor|center|frameless|150x150px]]
|'''Computer'''
+
|'''Compressor'''
|
 
 
|
 
|
|<p style="text-align:right;">$250</p>
 
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
|working (12/28/21)
 
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|[[File:BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 +
|'''OUTFEED TABLE'''
 
|
 
|
|'''Monitor, 27"'''
 
|Dell
 
|SE2717H/HX
 
|<p style="text-align:right;">$100</p>
 
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
|working (12/28/21)
 
 
|
 
|
|-
+
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:left; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; color:#000000;"
 +
| style="vertical-align:middle;" |
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 +
|}
 +
 +
=== 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&nbsp;Software
 +
|System&nbsp;Software
 +
|Manufacturer /
 +
Model
 +
|-
 +
|'''Computer'''
 +
i7 3.4GHz
 +
|[https://lightburnsoftware.com/ LightBurn 1.6.03]
 +
|Microsoft Windows 10 Pro
 
|
 
|
 +
|-
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 +
|}
 +
 +
=== BOSSLASER Hand Tools===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:left; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; background-color:#D81F2B; color:#ffffff;"
 +
|Item
 +
|Description
 +
|Manufacturer /
 +
Model
 +
|Owner
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|'''ruler'''
 +
|24" L-square
 
|
 
|
|'''rotary attachment'''
+
|'''PPM'''
'''for Boss&nbsp;Laser'''
+
|-
|
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
|?
 
 
|
 
|
|-
 
|'''Picture'''
 
|'''Item'''
 
|'''Manufacturer'''
 
|'''Model<br>Number'''
 
|'''Estimated<br>Value'''
 
|'''Manual'''
 
|'''Owner'''
 
|'''Status'''
 
|'''Problem<br>Description'''
 
 
|}
 
|}
 
+
:'''BOSSLASER''' hand tools should be marked with <span style="color:#D81F2B">'''red'''</span> tape or paint or powder coating.
 
 
===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.
 
 
: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.
 +
=== 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.
 +
*'''[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve Use this form to sign in (No more paper)]'''
  
===[[Donations Received]]===
+
'''If you don't have a reservation:'''
  
===[[Wish List#Laser -- BOSS|Wish List]]===
+
*Be sure your job does not run longer than an upcoming reservation or you are expected to stop your job.
  
==Benefits and Policies==
+
==PPM Benefits==
 
{{Member Benefits}}
 
{{Member Benefits}}
===[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve-equipment Equipment Reservations]===
+
==PPM Policies==
===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.''' (Avoid cutting or engraving compact discs, for example.)
:'''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.'''''
 +
 
 +
:[[Laser Cutting Material Table‏‎|'''Laser Cutting Material Table‏‎''']]
 +
:[[Laser Cutting Acrylic‏‎|'''Laser Cutting Acrylic‏‎''']]
 +
 
 +
{{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&nbsp;discount code is saved as a Pinned Message in our 'laser-cutter' channel in&nbsp;Slack.
  
==Software==
+
'''''Please note:'''''  Your at home subscription is unique to only&nbsp;you.<br>
 +
You will receive an email from LightBurn with your unique registration&nbsp;key.<br>
 +
Make&nbsp;note of that key because you will need it again if you renew your&nbsp;subscription.<br>
 +
PPM&nbsp;does not have access to your registration&nbsp;key.<br>
  
 
===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">
 +
File:GIVE CANCER THE BOOT.jpeg|alt=GIVE CANCER THE BOOT engraved ornament|'''"GIVE CANCER THE BOOT"<br>cancer awareness ornament''<br>Kathy Douglas<br>(08/28/24)'''''
 +
 +
File:Peace out CHEMO.jpg|alt=Peace out CHEMO engraved ornament|'''"peace out CHEMO"<br>cancer awareness ornament<br>''Kathy Douglas<br>(08/28/24)'''''
 +
 +
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><i>by Ben Yakura<br>(04/21/24)</i>'''
 +
 +
File:Robot parts by ChrisS.jpg|alt=Robot parts cut on BOSSLASER by Chris Stevens|'''Robot parts(!)<br>designed and cut<br><i>by Chris Stevens<br>(07/16/23)</i>'''
 +
 +
File:Rubber stamp DUNN.jpg|alt=Rubber stamp and resin inlay|'''Rubber stamp<br>and resin inlay<br><i>by Brandon Hall</i>'''
 +
 +
File:Station 11 Battalion 2 sign.jpg|alt=Station 11 Battalion 2 sign|'''Station 11 Battalion 2<br>backlit district map<br><i>by Joey Callahan</i>'''
  
===Boss Laser Photo Gallery===
+
File:IRON GIANT 1.jpg|alt=THE IRON GIANT 14"x24" minimalist wall art|'''THE IRON GIANT<br>minimalist wall art, 14"x24"<br><i>by Ben S.</i>'''
<gallery>
 
File:Rubber stamp DUNN.jpg|alt=Rubber stamp and resin inlay|<center>Rubber stamp<br>and resin inlay<br>(by Brandon Hall)</center>
 
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:Laser engraved panels.jpg|alt=Laser engraved panels|<center>Laser engraved panels<br>(by Mike Mike)</center>
 
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>
<br>
+
 
 
{{Template:Showcase_blurb}}
 
{{Template:Showcase_blurb}}
  
 +
==Related Pages==
 +
'''Links to related PPM Wiki pages:'''
 +
 +
:[[Laser|<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#D81F2B">&nbsp;&nbsp;'''Laser — Epilog Zing'''&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>]] - '''[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve make a reservation]'''
  
==See Also ==
+
:[[CNC|<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#2B78BE">&nbsp;&nbsp;'''CNC Router Table'''&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>]] - '''[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve make a reservation]'''
===[[Laser|Laser -- Epilog]]===
 
  
==Curated Links==
+
==Hand-Curated Links==
:'''[https://www.imag-r.com/ ImagR] -- Prepare your image for laser engraving'''
+
'''Links to member-recommended external sites:'''
 +
:'''[https://www.printables.com/model 3D models database]''' — on Printables.com
 +
:'''[https://www.imag-r.com/ ImagR]''' — Prepare your image for laser engraving
 +
:'''[https://hackaday.io/project/10649-boxespy Boxes.py]''' — Cut out boxes and other stuff with a laser cutter
 +
:'''[https://www.makercase.com/ MakerCase]''' — web-based application for designing boxes
  
==Other Fun Stuff==
+
==Additional Help==
:'''Cut boxes with a laser cutter: [https://www.makercase.com/ MakerCase] or [https://hackaday.io/project/10649-boxespy Boxes.py]'''
+
:Use the PPM Slack channel #laser-cutter
<br>
+
:[[How To Slack#PPM Channel Names and Descriptions|'''List of all PPM Slack channels''']]
<hr>
+
: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-->

Latest revision as of 11:56, 21 November 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 PPM 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 T.E.S.L.A. Access system.

Boss Laser Check-in and Reservations

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

 


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

The Boss Laser Safety and Certification class is offered twice per month.
PPM announces its Upcoming events, including classes, on Meetup

Training

Pikes Peak Makerspace Boss Laser Intro — PPM YouTube channel

General Use

  • Do not accidently change the brass knobs on the top of the laser as they control the mirror alignment.
  • Weights are no longer allowed to hold down material.
  • Use pins to hold down your material.
  • If not enough pins are available, use Slack to message the Area Contact, or discuss on the #laser-cutter channel.

Cleaning Policies

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.

☐ NEVER cut PVC (When in doubt, error on the side of caution)
☐ Avoid reflective material (avoid cutting or engraving compact discs, for example)
☐ Use only approved materials
☐ NEVER leave the laser unattended while it is running (Stay in the building)
☐ Leave lid closed for a few moments after your job is completed to allow for proper ventilation
☐ Up to 80% power is allowed
☐ 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

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 post a message 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 Resources
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 System Software Manufacturer /

Model

Computer

i7 3.4GHz

LightBurn 1.6.03 Microsoft Windows 10 Pro

BOSSLASER Hand Tools

Item Description Manufacturer /

Model

Owner
ruler 24" L-square PPM
BOSSLASER hand tools should be marked with red tape or paint or powder coating.
Return all tools to their proper location after use. This rule applies to all areas of our Makerspace.

Equipment Reservations

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.

PPM Benefits

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.

PPM Policies

Materials

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

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:

  Laser — Epilog Zing   - make a reservation
  CNC Router Table   - make a reservation

Hand-Curated Links

Links to member-recommended external sites:

3D models database — on Printables.com
ImagR — Prepare your image for laser engraving
Boxes.py — Cut out boxes and other stuff with a laser cutter
MakerCase — web-based application for designing boxes

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.