Welcome to the laser cutter induction.
Below is an overview of laser cutting and of the Trotec laser cutter we use at KWMC The Factory. Please work through the course content below.
Once finished, you will need to complete a short quiz. You will need to score 100% to complete the online induction, and you may retake the quiz as many times as you need.
The course will take between 30-60 mins to complete, please get in touch if you need any support.
Overview
Laser cutting is a digital fabrication process that uses a thin, focused, laser beam to cut and etch materials into custom designs, patterns, and shapes.
The machine is compatible with digital vector files. Vector files create a dot-to-dot pathway of points and lines that guide the laser head around your design.
Laser cutting can be used to create a wide range of products, including jewellery, gifts, greetings cards and invitations, awards, branded merchandise, models, toys and games, and home decor. It also has applications within fashion and textiles, architecture, electronics, furniture making and fabrication. The list is endless!
Our machine:
Trotec Speedy 400: 120W CO2 Laser Cutter
Maximum cutting area: 1004 x 610 mm
Maximum material thickness for cutting: 15 mm
NOTE: Above 6mm thickness requires technician assistance (lens change)
File formats: PDF, SVG, EPS, AI, DXF (save all as PDF)
Materials Information:
Cut & engrave: laser grade plywood, acrylic, engraving laminates, paper, card, laser rubber, cork, foam, fabric, leather, felt, mylar, tyvek
Engrave only: slate, stone, brick, glass, hardwoods, anodised aluminium, metal *only when treated with Cermark spray
Cannot cut or engrave: untreated metal, MDF, vinyl / PVC (TOXIC!), non-laser grade plywood
NOTE: If you are not sure about a material or it is not listed here then please ask a technician.
NOTE: Laser plywood is made using specific, formaldehyde free glue that is safe and effective to laser cut. The sheet construction ensures there are no gaps in the ply which could lead to air bubbles, and the sheets are the correct density to allow reliable and consistent cutting.