Laser Cutting

We have 6 laser cutters available at HPO and 5 at Sheaf Workshops:

• 8x Trotec speedy 100’s with a bed size of 610mmx 305mm 

• 1x Trotec speedy 300 with a bed size of 726mm x 432mm 

• 2x Trotec speedy 400’s with a bed size of 1016mm x 610mm

Materials you can use on the laser cutters:

• Cast acrylic

• Plywood

• Paper, card stock

• Laser rubber

• Lino

• Cotton fabric

• Felt, wool

• Leather

• Most woods

• Etching can be done on almost anything, wood, cardboard, Anodised aluminium, stainless steel, plastic, marble, stone, tile, and glass. 

Alternatively, if it is a more unusual process you require, find out what we have available and talk to one of the technicians located in both at HPO and Sheaf workshops, as in some cases we can order specialist sheets of material for you, we might need to know a bit more information as there is certain materials we don’t allow on the laser cutters. 

Which materials can I NOT use?

Some materials are not suitable for laser cutting as our machines are not powerful enough to cut or engrave them, some due to their chemical make-up, may have materials which are unsuitable for laser cutting and engraving. If processed these materials create dangerous dust or gases as well as damage the machine. 

What file formats can I bring down?

The Laser cutters use software called Corel Draw which is available on AppsAnywhere on all SHU PCs. You do not need to make your drawing in this programme, but it will need to be opened up in this to edit the file and send to the laser cutter. You can design your drawing in most CAD software including Illustrator, Photoshop and VectorWorks, as long as you save it in the following formats: EPS, Ai, DXF, DWG.

Need to cut something bigger?

We have two flatbed CNC routers.   

For larger work up to 1220x2440mm you can visit Sheaf workshops, 4L17 or the flatbed router in HPO room 16.-1.08 for sizes up to 1220x1500mm 

How to book

Once you have completed your induction your details will be added to our online booking system called Connect2.  

You are able to book hour long slots in either HPO or Sheaf workshop from 9am until 4.30pm.

Costs

There is no cost to use the laser cutters, just pay for the materials you need in stores.

Need more help?

If you are in need of assistance please speak to a member of the Digital Workshop Team.

Don’t forget….. 

Never leave work unattended in the laser cutters!