The Glowforge Pro uses air filtration to ensure safe and clean operation when cutting, engraving, or scoring materials. When the laser cutter is in use, it produces smoke, dust, and small particles as materials like wood, acrylic, or leather are burned away. These byproducts need to be safely removed to keep the workspace clean and free of odors or harmful fumes.

Here’s how the air filtration process works:

• Built-In Exhaust Fan + Window

The Glowforge comes with an exhaust fan that pulls smoke and particles out of the machine. This fan connects to an exhaust hose, which can vent outside through a window or other proper opening.

• Air Filter

If venting outside isn’t an option, the Glowforge Air Filter is available. This accessory cleans the air by capturing smoke, dust, and fumes in a series of high-efficiency filters. Clean, safe air is then returned to the room.

The Glowforge Pro uses a CO₂ laser to cut, engrave, and score materials. The laser is created by using a special mix of gases, including carbon dioxide, inside the laser tube. 

This process generates a powerful beam of infrared light. The beam is then reflected through mirrors and guided into the printing head.

Inside the printing head, a lens focuses the laser into a tiny, precise point. This allows the laser to either cut through materials or engrave detailed designs on their surface. The head moves smoothly across the workspace, following the exact path of your design to make accurate and clean cuts or engravings.

The Glowforge software is an essential tool for turning your designs into finished creations. It helps you prepare your SVG files, set up materials, and control the laser cutting and engraving process.

• Design Upload

The software allows you to upload SVG files, which it converts into instructions the Glowforge can follow.

• Material Setup

You can select the type of material you’re using (like wood, acrylic, or leather), and the software will automatically adjust the laser settings for optimal results.

• Preview and Adjustments

The software shows you a live preview of your design on the material inside the machine. You can drag, resize, or rotate the design to get it exactly how you want it before starting.

• Starting the Print

When everything is ready, the software sends the final instructions to the Glowforge, and the machine prepares to print. At this point, the blue "magic button" lights up, and you press it to start the laser.

The blue button on the Glowforge, often called the "magic button," is a simple but essential part of the machine. It gives you easy control over starting and stopping the printing process.

• Starting a Print

Once you’ve set up your design in the Glowforge software and the machine is ready, the button will glow blue. Pressing the button starts the laser printing process, bringing your design to life.

• Stopping a Print

If you need to stop a print for any reason, pressing the button again pauses the process. This can be helpful if you notice a problem or need to make adjustments.

The magic button acts as a physical step to ensure you're ready to begin before the laser starts. It’s a simple way to control the printing process.