You can schedule a time to receive training and use this tool by clicking the button at the top of the page. Please keep in mind that reservations can only be made within 2 weeks of the booking time.
Alternatively, this tool is available by walk-in during open lab hours.
Our available laser cutters include the Universal Laser Systems VLS 2.30 (with rotary attachment), Universal Laser Systems VLS 4.60, and Universal Laser Systems VLS 6.60.
Please keep in mind that tool reservations can only be made at least 2 weeks in advance.
“Proper Laser Cutter Operations” on MyLearning.com under MyJH is required before you can begin in-person training at the Makerspace. Read below for more information on laser cutter training.
VLS 2.30
This laser cutter is fitted with a rotary attachment so you can etch on surfaces. We are currently only allowing acrylic etching, as glass etching produces fine dust that may be dangerous to inhale.
Work Area: 16″ x 12″ x 4″
Max Part Size: 18.75″ x 14.6″ x 4″
You can find the manual here.
VLS 4.60
Work Area: 24″ x 18″
Max Material Thickness: 0.375″
Laser Dimension: 36″ x 38″ x 36″
Z-Axis Lifting Capacity: 40 lbs.
You can find the manual here.
VLS 6.60
Work Area: 32″ x 18″
Max Material Thickness: 0.375″
Laser Dimension: 44″ x 39″ x 36″
Z-Axis Lifting Capacity: 40 lbs.
You can find the manual here.
What is laser cutting?
Laser cutting is a technology that uses a laser to vaporize materials, resulting in a cut edge. As you can imagine, this will produce fumes. While we do have a ventilation system, we do limit what type of materials that you are allowed to cut at the Makerspace for toxicity concerns.
What materials am I allowed to cut?
Please refer to this document for the list of allowed and not allowed materials.
Gaining access to the laser cutter
There are 2 steps to gain access to the laser cutters:
- Head to MyLearning from MyJH.
- Finish the course “Proper Laser Cutter Operations” (Updated on 3/24/23 to include fire blanket training). Note: This link only works after signing in to MyLearning.
- Come for in-person training at the Makerspace. Remember to send a copy of your certificate of completion to the Technician leading the laser cutter training. Students who complete the course will be able to access their certificate from within MyLearning, on the “My History” screen.
Laser cutting specifications
See this document for a detailed walk-through on using the laser cutters.
We use 2 programs to cut with our laser cutters: Universal Control Panel, CorelDraw X7
Our laser cutters work using RGB, which is why we use CorelDraw to generate the files. The operations are as follows:
Cut: Red (255, 0, 0)
Raster: Black (0, 0, 0)
Vector Engrave: Blue (0, 0, 255)
Use Hairline Line Thickness For Cut and Vector Engrave.
After adjusting the settings correctly, you can send the file to Universal Control Panel to cut with the laser cutter.