Laser Cutter

Laser Cutter and Etching: Library Learning Commons

The Carney LLC has a Thunder Nova 35 laser cutter/engraver available for use by the Carney Community

Before using the laser cutter available at the LLC, you will need to complete two levels of training: online and in-person.

Training

Online Training covers: 

• Orientation to the Makerspace

• Safety Guidelines that you need to follow

• Basic Operation Principles

Hand's-on Training with Makerspace Staff

After you finished the online training you can book a laser Hands-on training session by contacting _________. No prior experience is required.

Laser Cutting/Engraving Equipment and Materials

The machine works by projecting a laser beam on the surface of the material, exposing it to a great deal of heat. When the laser beam touches the surface of the material, it heats it up to the point that it melts or vaporizes. During the engraving process, based on the exposure time, the surface color changes and creates contrast. Cutting is when the material burns and evaporates and the beam completely goes through the material.

The control of the pattern followed by the laser is as easy as printing. First, you create the pattern using Lightburn design software. Then, you use the computer next to the laser cutter to send the graphic to the laser. At the push of a button, your selected material is laser engraved or laser cut with the stored settings. 

Please note that only materials obtained from our  Makerspace Staff are allowed. 

Booking and using the Laser Cutter

After you finish both the online and hands-on training sessions, you are ready to work. 

??You can book the Laser cutter in advance using the booking system???

When you come to the Library Learning Commons, wait for our staff to set you up. They will check your design, give you advice if needed and check that the machine is ready to work. 

Project Ideas

https://ibmtjbot.github.io/