Width of burn line

[bob2299]

Does anyone know the typical width (kerf) of the burn line of the laser?

[Zax]

It varies based on the laser power, but 0.12 to 0.18 mm is typical.

I usually de-focus slightly for engraving as that expands the beam slightly (at the expense of maximum power) and use 0.18 which overlaps just enough to not get lines in the finished product.

The cutting kerf will depend on the material, but probably towards the smaller size, however the heat affected zone of the kerf will be much larger and can result in charring along the kerf.

[nottingham82]

also varies with speed and material.  that .1mm can balloon out to a full mm if you go slow with some materials such as leather or acrylic.  As a general rule more passes at a fast speed will keep the kerf small when cutting. 

[bob2299]

Thank you both. 

I am burning 1.5mm basswood.  Have done some experimenting with Forstner bit holes and inserting the
'coins".  I find that it needs a diameter of 24.6mm to fit nicely in the hole made by a 1" (25.4mm) Forstener. 

My burn requires 5 passes at 600 speed and full power.  The part of the job that is text uses same speed, 1 pass and 150 power setting.

Bob