Rules of ThumbLaser Cutting & Engraving
Laser Cutting & Engraving
8 rules across 4 topics. Each is a tested starting point with the source credited.
Safety & Materials
Dialing In Settings
Speed / power testFor a new material, run a speed-vs-power test grid on a scrap of the real stock and read the best cell straight off the sheet.Max power in LightBurnSet your controller’s max S-value (e.g. $30 = 1000 in GRBL) to match LightBurn’s S-value max so 100% in software actually drives the laser at full power.Settings libraryRun one focused material test to find good settings, then save them as a named material profile — build a library so each material is dialed in once, not re-guessed every job.Galvo timing & delaysSet jump delays to a safe baseline, then tune Start TC and Laser Off TC on a hatched-square test card until the fill lines just meet the contour with no gap and no burn-in.
Maintenance & Alignment
Beam alignmentAlign the mirrors so the beam lands in the same spot at the near and far end of each axis — use a tape target and low power to walk it in.Machine maintenanceClean the lens and mirrors on a regular schedule and keep the rails and exhaust clear — a dirty lens quietly steals cutting power.