Difference between revisions of "Laser -- BOSS"

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[[File:Level_3_badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge|left|frameless|100x100px]]
+
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge used at Pikes Peak Makerspace|left|frameless|100x100px|PPM TRAINING & CERTIFICATION REQUIRED]]
  
Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) is dedicated to supporting our maker community in their creative process by providing shared space, shared tools, software, materials and a knowledge base to turn their ideas into reality.
+
'''Our Laser Engraver/Cutter Area at Pikes Peak Makerspace (PPM) consists mostly of Level 3 equipment.'''
  
'''The 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.
 
 
Additional training and 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.
  
 +
[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve '''Boss Laser Check-in and Reservations''']
 +
<br>
 +
<br>
 +
{{Template:Contact Us}}
  
<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.
+
<p style="padding:0.2em 0.4em; background:#D81F2B; color:#FFFFFF; font-size:15%;"> &nbsp; </p>
 
<br>
 
<br>
 +
{{Template:Safety}}
 
<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>
 +
==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 ==
 +
*'''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.
  
{{Template:Safety}}
+
:☐ '''Clean''' out the debris in, on, and around the honeycomb. Vacuum if&nbsp;necessary.
  
==Classes and Training==
+
:☐ '''Dump''' out catch tray.
  
===[[New Member Orientation]]===
+
: ☐ '''Empty''' small blue trash can if full.
  
===Area Captain===
+
:'''Organize''' computer area.
:'''Mathew Palfenier''' (BOSSLASER)
 
:[[Area Captain Duties#Laser|'''Area Captain Duties''']]
 
::Maintain cleaning schedule
 
::Host certification classes (can be found at [https://www.meetup.com/pikespeakmakerspace/events Meetup])
 
::Member support
 
  
===Classes & Training===
+
:'''Sweep''' floor around the boss area.
: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'''
 
Make sure to stay updated with LightBurn tips and tricks which can be found [[LightBurn Tips|'''here''']]
 
  
==General Use and Cleaning Policies==
+
'''''Always leave the space better than when you found it.'''''
:*Weights are no longer allowed. Please use the pins to hold down your material.
 
:*Sign-in required.  Clipboard for sign-in can be found hanging on the right side of the computer.
 
:*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
 
:**leave the space better than when you found it
 
  
 
==Boss-specific Safety Information==
 
==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&nbsp;toxic.
:
+
 
:'''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&nbsp;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 to allow for proper&nbsp;ventilation
:Leave lid closed for a few moments after your job is completed to allow for proper ventilation
+
:Up to 80% power is allowed
:Up to 80% power is allowed
+
:Avoid reflective material
:Avoid reflective material
+
: Ensure the work area interior and exterior is clean before and after your&nbsp;work
: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&nbsp;use
:Keep the exhaust fan and chiller running while the laser is in use
+
: Make sure Zing Laser isn’t running before turning off&nbsp;fan
:Make sure Zing Laser isn’t running before turning off fan
+
 
 
==Troubleshooting and Common Issues==
 
==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.
+
: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 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 focus)'''
 
  
The laser head may be sticking.  GENTLY press up and down with the palm of your hand until back in place.
+
'''Auto-focus malfunction? (The bed is not moving during auto-focus, or the bed is moving down during auto&nbsp;focus)'''
  
If that did not fix the problem, please contact Mathew or Drew.
+
: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.
  
 
'''The laser head is moving and blowing air but the laser is not firing?'''
 
'''The laser head is moving and blowing air but the laser is not firing?'''
  
Make sure the boss chiller has been turned on.    
+
:Make sure the boss chiller has been turned&nbsp;on.
 
 
==Events==
 
<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==
 
:Use the PPM Slack channel #laser-cutter
 
:Contact '''Mathew Palfenier''' directly on Slack
 
  
 
==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/<br>Model'''
+
|Manufacturer
|'''Manual'''
+
|Model
|'''Estimated<br>Value'''
+
|Resources
|'''Owner'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|[[File:BOSS LASER.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER engraver|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|[[File:BOSS LASER.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER engraver|center|frameless|150x150px]]
Line 107: Line 98:
 
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge|left|frameless|41x41px]]
 
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge|left|frameless|41x41px]]
 
|BOSS
 
|BOSS
[https://www.bosslaser.com/laser-machines/boss-hp-3655 LS-3655]
+
|LS-3655
|[https://admin.bosslaser.com/assets/cfcc74b8-ec51-4445-9e87-bc4955308bec Operators Manual]
+
|[https://bosslaser.com/wp-content/uploads/QM-855-901-LS-Manual-003.pdf Operators Manual]
|<p style="text-align:right;">$20,000</p>
 
|PPM
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|[[File:Industrial Chiller.jpg|alt=Industrial Chiller|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|[[File:Industrial Chiller.jpg|alt=Industrial Chiller|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|'''Industrial Water Chiller'''
 
|'''Industrial Water Chiller'''
 
|S&A
 
|S&A
[https://www.amazon.com/Genuine-CW-5000DG-Industrial-Chiller-Engraving/dp/B088LDCF6L?th=1 CW&#8209;5000DG]
+
|CW&#8209;5000DG
(Amazon description)
 
 
|[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]
|<p style="text-align:right;">$500</p>
+
 
|PPM
+
 
 +
[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'''
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
+
|
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
|[[File:Compressor.jpg|alt=Compressor|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|[[File:Compressor.jpg|alt=Compressor|center|frameless|150x150px]]
Line 133: Line 121:
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
 
|-
 
|-
 +
|[[File:BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER OUTFEED TABLE|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 +
|'''OUTFEED TABLE'''
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 +
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:left; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; color:#000000;"
 +
| style="vertical-align:middle;" |
 
|
 
|
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|
 
|'''rotary attachment'''
 
'''for Boss&nbsp;Laser'''
 
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge|left|frameless|41x41px]]
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|PPM
 
|-
 
|
 
|'''camera'''
 
'''for Boss&nbsp;Laser'''
 
[[File:Level 3 badge.png|alt=Level 3 badge|left|frameless|41x41px]]
 
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|PPM
 
|-
 
|<center>'''Picture'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Item'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Manufacturer/<br>Model'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Manual'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Estimated<br>Value'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Owner'''</center>
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
+
=== BOSSLASER Computer===
===BOSSLASER Computer===
+
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable sortable"
+
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:left; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important; background-color:#D81F2B; color:#ffffff;"
|- style="font-weight:bold; text-align:center; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif !important;; background-color:#D81F2B; color:#ffffff;"
+
|Item
| style="vertical-align:middle;" |'''Picture'''
+
|Application&nbsp;Software
|'''Item'''
+
|Manufacturer/Model
|'''Manufacturer/<br>Model'''
+
|System&nbsp;Software
|'''System<br>Software'''
 
|'''Application<br>Software'''
 
|'''Estimated<br>Value'''
 
|'''Owner'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
|
 
 
|'''Computer'''
 
|'''Computer'''
i7 3.4GHz,
+
i7 3.4GHz  
 
+
|[https://lightburnsoftware.com/ LightBurn 1.6.03]
new Dell keyboard
 
 
 
(01/22/23)
 
 
|
 
|
|Windows 10 Pro
+
|Microsoft Windows 10 Pro
|'''[[LightBurn Tips|LightBurn]]'''
 
|<p style="text-align:right;">$250</p>
 
|PPM
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|
 
|
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|
 
|
 
|
 
|
|
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|[[File:BOSS LASER Computer.jpg|alt=BOSS LASER Computer|center|frameless|150x150px]]
 
|'''Monitor, 27"'''
 
|Dell
 
SE2717H/HX
 
|
 
|
 
|<p style="text-align:right;">$100</p>
 
|PPM
 
|-
 
|<center>'''Picture'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Item'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Manufacturer/<br>Model'''</center>
 
|<center>'''System<br>Software'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Application<br>Software'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Estimated<br>Value'''</center>
 
|<center>'''Owner'''</center>
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
===Hand Tools===
+
=== Equipment Reservations===
:<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.
+
*Reserve 24 Hours in Advance to Guarantee Equipment.
:Return all tools to their proper location after use. This rule applies to all areas of our Makerspace.
+
*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.
: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 Benefits==
 
{{Member Benefits}}
 
{{Member Benefits}}
===[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve 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.'''
:'''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}}
 
{{Template:Historical}}
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:'''&bull;''' [[Laser Cutting Acrylic‏‎]] (16:31, 24 November 2015)
 
:'''&bull;''' [[Laser Cutting Acrylic‏‎]] (16:31, 24 November 2015)
  
===[[New Member Orientation#Red Tags|Red Tags]]===
+
{{Red Tags}}
{{Scrap and Trash}}
 
  
==Software==
+
== Related Software ==
At home LightBurn subscriptions can be purchased at a discounted rate for being a PPM member. Please see the pinned comment in the 'laser-cutter' channel in Slack for the code.
+
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 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&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.
+
'''''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===
:'''[[LightBurn Tips|LightBurn]]'''
+
:'''[[LightBurn Tips]]'''
:'''[[Canva Tips|Canva]]'''
+
:'''[[Canva Tips]]'''
:'''[[Adobe Illustrator Tips|Adobe Illustrator]]'''
+
:'''[[Adobe Illustrator Tips]]'''
:'''[[Adobe Photoshop Tips|Adobe Photoshop]]'''
+
:'''[[Adobe Photoshop Tips]]'''
:'''[[Inkscape Tips|Inkscape]]'''
+
:'''[[Inkscape Tips]]'''
:'''[[Procreate app Tips|Procreate]]'''
+
:'''[[Procreate app Tips]]'''
  
 
===Printing Software===
 
===Printing Software===
:'''[[LightBurn Tips|LightBurn]]'''
+
:'''[https://lightburnsoftware.com/ LightBurn Software]''' — home page
 +
 
 +
==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>'''
  
==Member Showcase ==
+
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>'''
<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: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|<center>Station 11 Battalion 2<br>backlit district map<br>by Joey Callahan</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 S.</center>    
+
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>'''
 +
 
 +
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>
 
</gallery>
  
 
{{Template:Showcase_blurb}}
 
{{Template:Showcase_blurb}}
  
== See Also==
 
Links to other PPM Wiki pages (internal links):
 
:[[Laser|'''Laser -- Epilog''']]
 
  
==Curated Links==
+
==Related Pages==
Links to other sites (external links):
+
'''Links to related PPM Wiki pages:'''
:'''[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>]] - '''[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve make a reservation]'''
:'''Cut boxes with a laser cutter: [https://www.makercase.com/ MakerCase] or [https://hackaday.io/project/10649-boxespy Boxes.py]'''
+
:[[CNC|<span style="color:#FFFFFF; background:#2B78BE">&nbsp;&nbsp;'''CNC Router Table'''&nbsp;&nbsp;</span>]] - '''[https://pikespeakmakerspace.org/reserve make a reservation]'''
 +
 
 +
==Hand-Curated Links==
 +
'''Links to member-recommended external sites:'''
 +
:'''[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==
Links to other sites (external links):
+
:Use the PPM Slack channel #laser-cutter
:'''[https://glowforge.com/products Glowforge 3D Laser Printer]'''
+
:[[How To Slack#PPM Channel Names and Descriptions|'''List of all PPM Slack channels''']]
<br>
+
: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.
<hr>
 
 
{{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-->
 
<!--Woodshop-->

Latest revision as of 17:34, 30 October 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 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

  • 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)
☐ 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

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 Manufacturer/Model System Software
Computer

i7 3.4GHz

LightBurn 1.6.03 Microsoft Windows 10 Pro

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.
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:

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

Hand-Curated Links

Links to member-recommended external sites:

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.