Makespace - User contributions [en]

EMF 2014

2014-07-24T15:53:19Z

Tmonca: /* Definitely Going */

(Taken from https://www.emfcamp.org/)

Electromagnetic Field is a UK camping festival for those with an inquisitive mind or an interest in making things: hackers, artists, geeks, crafters, scientists, and engineers.

Tickets are currently £95 for weekend camping, there are add-on tickets for car parking and camper van/caravan parking.

The EMF camp wiki is: http://wiki.emfcamp.org/wiki/Electromagnetic_Field_2014

==Things to Bring==
(See http://wiki.emfcamp.org/wiki/Packing_List for more details)
* Yourself
* A tent
* A torch
* Money to buy awesome things
* A ~10m mains extension cable
* A ~10m ethernet cable
* Electronicy geeky things obviously

==Members @ EMF==
===Definitely Going===
* [[User:Pinski1|Robert K]] +1 (lift might be available)
** I'll be bringing a 3D printer, a 13.6kg combat robot, an LED Display, 100Watt LED.
* Toby M
** Potentially a large quadcopter if my flying skills improve enough :)
* Mat C +1 (lift might be available)
* Brian C
* Mark T
* Mark M (lift might be available from Hitchin)
* Mark C + kids (6 & 8)
* Stephen
* Tom O
* Tom M
** I'll bring my project, a 3D printer that makes clothes. I've also applied to do a talk about it.
* JCGS (bringing Land-Rover camper, can give lifts to up to 12 or 13 at a pinch)
* Kim SJ + wife and maybe niece
** I'll bring the Badger, at least. And maybe some Pi stuff.

===Possibly Going===
* Anne H. & friend
* Laura J + Michael D (subject to other commitments)

===Makespace Village===
There has been a suggestion of setting up Makespace Cambridge in the Hackspace Village. This would allow us to have a central Makespace tent and a place to show off our (un)finished projects!
We have an offer of 2 marquees; 10m x 4m (can be put up as 6mx4m) and 12m x 6m from Kim SJ's brother. We need to decide what we want to do for our Makespace Camp.

==Transport==
(Taken from http://wiki.emfcamp.org/wiki/Travel)

The site has the postcode MK17 0BU. This is roughly a mile outside of Newton Longville.

Public transport links don't look to be the best with Google Maps estimating it to be a 3 bus 3 hour journey or a 4 hour trip via London. It would thus be advisable to lift share with others.

Equipment/BicycleMaintain

2014-04-22T09:46:05Z

Tmonca: /* Bicycle Maintenance */

== Bicycle Maintenance ==

Makespace now owns a decent set of bicycle tools. These consist of:

'''Main Tool Kit'''

[[File:AK-38.png]]

[[Equipment/BicycleMaintain/TK1|Contents of AK-38]]

'''Torque wrench'''

X-Tools Pro torque wrench

[[File:TorquePro.png]]

'''Work Stand'''

X-Tools Home Mechanic Prep Stand

[[File:WorkStand-X.png]]

'''Floor pump'''

Joe Blow Pro Track pump

[[File:JoeBlow.png]]

File:JoeBlow.png

2014-04-22T09:43:03Z

Tmonca: uploaded a new version of "File:JoeBlow.png"

Picture of Joe Blow Track pump pro

File:JoeBlow.png

2014-04-22T09:40:04Z

Tmonca: Picture of Joe Blow Track pump pro

Picture of Joe Blow Track pump pro

Equipment

2014-04-22T09:33:54Z

Tmonca: /* The Space */

[[File:Laser-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
[[File:Makerbot-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
[[File:Roland-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
[[File:WP_20130509_005.jpg||thumb|320px|link=Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
[[File:Lathe-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
[[File:Powertools-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
[[File:Electronics-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
[[File:fine_metal_DSC_7694.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine metalwork Workbench]]
[[File:8633913103 92f52a697d c.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking bench]]
[[File:300xq.PNG|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]
[[File:CircularSaw.PNG|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/5704RK|Makita Circular Saw]]
[[File:Rage3db_1.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/MitreSawRage3Db|Rage 3 Mitre Saw]]
[[File:warco_mill.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/WarcoMill|Warco Mill]]

The equipment you can find in Makespace.

== Using our Equipment ==

There is a large and growing variety of equipment and tools; some are safe to use, some can be dangerous or are expensive and need training before use. We have divided all the tools below into [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]]. Make sure you understand which class a tool is in before you attempt to use it, and read the associated wiki page.

[[The right tool for the job]] has some notes on what tools to use for various tasks.

Smaller equipment is listed on the [[Things and stuff]] page.

== The Workshop ==

* [[Equipment/BandSaw|BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/5704RK|Circular Saw - Makita ]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
* [[Equipment/Drill_Presses|Drill Presses]]
* [[Equipment/Grinder|Grinder]]
* [[Equipment/Lathe|Lathe - Myford]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline lathe|Lathe - Sherline]]
* Metalwork Benches
* [[Equipment/Sherline mill|Mill - Sherline ]]
* [[Equipment/WarcoMill|Mill - Warco ]]
* [[Equipment/MitreSawRage3Db|Mitre Saw - Rage 3]]
* [[Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools (small)]]
* Woodwork Benches
* [[Equipment/WoodLathe|Woodworking Lathe]]

== The Space ==

* [[Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
* [[Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine Metalwork Bench]] and [[Equipment/Flexible_Shaft_Drill|Flexible Shaft Drill]]
* [[Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking kiln, torch and associated tools]]
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
* [[Equipment/PCB_Mill|PCB Mill]]
* [http://www.pattesters.co.uk/pat-testers/basic-pat-testers/seaward-primetest-100-pat-tester PrimeTest 100 PAT Tester]
* [[Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]
* [[Equipment/Vinyl_Cutter|Vinyl Cutter]]
* General Tools
** [http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/clarke-cht641-199-piece-diy-tool-kit-with-cant Clarke CHT641 199 Piece DIY Tool Kit With Cantilever Tool Box]
* [[Equipment/Plotter|HP 750C A0 Plotter]]
* [[Equipment/BicycleMaintain|Bicycle Maintenance]]

== Proposals and Notes ==

* [[Equipment/CNC_Metal_Mill|CNC Metal Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Hand_Tools|Hand Tools]]
* [[Equipment/PurchasedFromGrant]]
** [[Equipment/BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/Stained_Glass|Stained Glass]]

== Related ==
* [[OwnersPage|List of owners and their duties]]
* Full equipment database [http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/ http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/].
* [[Infrastructure|Makespace Infrastructure]]
* [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]] - for safety and training requirements.
* [[Equipment/NewKit|New Kit]] - process for adding to our equipment inventory.
* This series of 10 metal working videos of up to an hour each from MIT are well worth watching. Episode 1 covers measuring and marking work, 2 covers band sawing and 3 covers drilling. Episodes 4 to 7 cover milling and 8 is about lathe work. [http://techtv.mit.edu/collections/ehs-videos/videos Introduction to Machine Shop Tools and Skills]

Equipment

2014-04-22T09:33:43Z

Tmonca: /* Proposals and Notes */

[[File:Laser-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
[[File:Makerbot-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
[[File:Roland-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
[[File:WP_20130509_005.jpg||thumb|320px|link=Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
[[File:Lathe-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
[[File:Powertools-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
[[File:Electronics-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
[[File:fine_metal_DSC_7694.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine metalwork Workbench]]
[[File:8633913103 92f52a697d c.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking bench]]
[[File:300xq.PNG|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]
[[File:CircularSaw.PNG|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/5704RK|Makita Circular Saw]]
[[File:Rage3db_1.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/MitreSawRage3Db|Rage 3 Mitre Saw]]
[[File:warco_mill.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/WarcoMill|Warco Mill]]

The equipment you can find in Makespace.

== Using our Equipment ==

There is a large and growing variety of equipment and tools; some are safe to use, some can be dangerous or are expensive and need training before use. We have divided all the tools below into [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]]. Make sure you understand which class a tool is in before you attempt to use it, and read the associated wiki page.

[[The right tool for the job]] has some notes on what tools to use for various tasks.

Smaller equipment is listed on the [[Things and stuff]] page.

== The Workshop ==

* [[Equipment/BandSaw|BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/5704RK|Circular Saw - Makita ]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
* [[Equipment/Drill_Presses|Drill Presses]]
* [[Equipment/Grinder|Grinder]]
* [[Equipment/Lathe|Lathe - Myford]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline lathe|Lathe - Sherline]]
* Metalwork Benches
* [[Equipment/Sherline mill|Mill - Sherline ]]
* [[Equipment/WarcoMill|Mill - Warco ]]
* [[Equipment/MitreSawRage3Db|Mitre Saw - Rage 3]]
* [[Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools (small)]]
* Woodwork Benches
* [[Equipment/WoodLathe|Woodworking Lathe]]

== The Space ==

* [[Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
* [[Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine Metalwork Bench]] and [[Equipment/Flexible_Shaft_Drill|Flexible Shaft Drill]]
* [[Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking kiln, torch and associated tools]]
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
* [[Equipment/PCB_Mill|PCB Mill]]
* [http://www.pattesters.co.uk/pat-testers/basic-pat-testers/seaward-primetest-100-pat-tester PrimeTest 100 PAT Tester]
* [[Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]
* [[Equipment/Vinyl_Cutter|Vinyl Cutter]]
* General Tools
** [http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/clarke-cht641-199-piece-diy-tool-kit-with-cant Clarke CHT641 199 Piece DIY Tool Kit With Cantilever Tool Box]
* [[Equipment/Plotter|HP 750C A0 Plotter]]

== Proposals and Notes ==

* [[Equipment/CNC_Metal_Mill|CNC Metal Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Hand_Tools|Hand Tools]]
* [[Equipment/PurchasedFromGrant]]
** [[Equipment/BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/Stained_Glass|Stained Glass]]

== Related ==
* [[OwnersPage|List of owners and their duties]]
* Full equipment database [http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/ http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/].
* [[Infrastructure|Makespace Infrastructure]]
* [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]] - for safety and training requirements.
* [[Equipment/NewKit|New Kit]] - process for adding to our equipment inventory.
* This series of 10 metal working videos of up to an hour each from MIT are well worth watching. Episode 1 covers measuring and marking work, 2 covers band sawing and 3 covers drilling. Episodes 4 to 7 cover milling and 8 is about lathe work. [http://techtv.mit.edu/collections/ehs-videos/videos Introduction to Machine Shop Tools and Skills]

Equipment/Laser Cutter

2013-12-05T09:49:44Z

Tmonca: /* Owners */

{{RedTool}}

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / Laser Cutter

[[File:Makespace-laser-cutter.JPG|thumb|460px|right|Our LS6090 PRO Laser Cutter]]

= Summary =

This is our LS 6090 PRO Laser Cutter. It has a working area of 900mm by 600mm, and is powered by a 60w CO2 Water Cooled Laser Tube that can engrave and cut through materials such as wood, plastic, card, leather, fabrics, up to about 10-15mm thick (note, it can not cut metal). The laser cut is approximately 0.15mm wide, and a job can take a few seconds through to tens of minutes depending on material thickness and design complexity.

We have a dedicated PC running LaserCut 5.3 software to import, prepare and download jobs to the Laser Cutter. It can import various formats, with DXF being the most commonly used, so various software packages can be used to create your designs.

Here are some examples of laser jobs we've run (please add a photo of yours any time you do a job!)

<gallery>
File:Laser-cut-focus-tool.JPG
File:Laser-cut-front-panels.JPG
File:Laser-cut-lizards.JPG
File:Laser-cut-m-and-s.JPG
File:Laser-cut-model-building.JPG
File:Laser-cut-ply-m.JPG
File:Laser_output_-_makespace_arrow.JPG
File:Laser_box.jpg
File:Croc-small.jpg
File:LaserCutter_Jobs_1.jpg
File:LaserCutterGallery_20130328.jpg
File:LasercutSettlers.jpg
File:Wolfstock1.jpg
File:Mug-holder.jpg
File:2013-10-21 20.10.06.jpg
File:Indy jigster.png
</gallery>

= Using the Laser Cutter =

The laser cutter is a great way to easily produce accurate and complex 2D forms in various materials, and can be designed for with limited experience in various drawing or CAD applications. At the same time, it is an expensive tool with real risk of injury and fire, so is very important you know how to use it to avoid damaging yourself and the machine. '''You must only use the laser cutter if you have been trained, and if you are ever in any doubt about something, please ask for assistance.'''

== Owners ==

The Owners are those who have volunteered to be in charge of the laser cutter, organising maintenance, responding to technical issues and generally being a point of contact. The current Owners of the Laser Cutter are:

* [[User:Simon|Simon Ford]]
* [[User:Barhamd|David Barham]]
* [[User:Nickcadsoftuk|Nick Johnson]]
* [[User:Tmonca|Toby Moncaster]]

== Trainers ==

The Trainers are those who have volunteered to teach others to use the laser cutter and to promote good working practice. The current Trainers for the Laser Cutter are:

* [[User:Simon|Simon Ford]]
* [[User:Barhamd|David Barham]]
* [[User:Nickcadsoftuk|Nick Johnson]]
* [[User:Tmonca|Toby Moncaster]]
* Martin de Selincourt

If you have any questions, problems or concerns around the laser cutter, please use the forum page:
* [http://makespace.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=45 Laser Cutter Log]

For the old mailing list thread see here:
* [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/Tmce2iKVzD8/discussion Log : Laser Cutter]

== Training ==

<div style="background:#FADADD; border:1px solid #FFC0CB; padding:5px">
<b>YOU CAN ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED</b><br>
and have been added to the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training#Trained_Users|Trained Users]] list by one of the Owners
</div>

To get trained on the laser cutter and be added to the qualified user list, you will need to arrange for a training session with one of the Laser Cutter Owners.

If you'd like to arrange training, please see:
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training|Laser Cutter Training]]

== Health and Safety ==

The laser cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must only be operated by members who have received appropriate training and who take due care. The top things to always remember when using the laser cutter are:
* '''ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU ARE ON THE LIST OF TRAINED USERS'''
* '''NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED'''
* '''KNOW WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT'''
* '''NEVER CUT MATERIALS THAT YOU DON'T KNOW ARE SAFE'''

As a trained user, you should be very aware of the following risks and how to deal with them:

'''FIRE (under normal operation)''' - Cutting at the wrong speed or the wrong power can result in the material igniting
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* Small flashes of flame that don't hang around for a fraction of a second are acceptable, but any more is rare and not acceptable
* If a fire does take, this is the process you should follow (from minor to major):
** Press "pause" (the same button you started the job with) - This will turn the laser off so no more heat enters, and assuming the flame goes out, you can press "start" for the job to continue where it left of
** Open the lid - With the job paused, you can open the lid to blow out the flame. Again, it is possible to re-close the lid and continue where you left off
** Move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics; alternatively send the laser to home/datum), and smother with a spare sheet of material or blow out
** Use the workshop CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FIRE (abnormal operation)''' - If the head gets stuck or something else goes wrong, ignition could happen much more suddenly or intensely
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* If the head gets trapped (e.g. tomb-stoning of a piece, mechanical failure) or any other problem occurs that causes or could cause fire, this is the process you should follow:
** Hit the emergency stop
** Open the lid and move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics)
** Blow out, smother with a spare sheet of material, or use the CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame as appropriate
* Ensure a Maintainer looks at the machine before it is brought back in to action if it is not obvious what went wrong and all is ok
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FUMES''' - The laser cutting process will release different smoke and fumes depending on the material.
* Never cut PVC or a material you are not sure is safe. When PVC is heated it releases chlorine gas, this mixes with the moisture in the air and the result is hydrochloric acid which is toxic to humans and corrosive to machines.
* Ensure the filter is on and the cutter lid stays closed for a while after a job to allow the fumes to clear.
* If you are feeling strange, think the fume build up is too much, or for any other reason you are unsure, stop the job.

'''TRAPPING''' - The head and bed of the cutter can be moved by the front panel menu or programs in the machines memory.
* Be careful when working inside the cutting area or with the lid open not to trap hands, hair, clothing or anything else.
* Always check the machine for unexpected items that may have fallen in before closing the lid.
* Do not attempt to climb into the machine!

'''LASER BURNS/LIGHT''' - A 60W laser can do real damage.
* The laser should be safe within the confines of the machine, and cut-off automatically when the lid is open (although this should not be relied upon). The top window is safe to look through during a job, but do not attempt to interfere with these windows or the laser or in any way invent some way to look at the laser.
* Do not tamper with the laser cutter, or any interlocks. All side panels of the laser should always be closed and locked whilst the machine is plugged in.
* Do not put metal in the laser cutter.

== Instructions ==

To use the laser cutter, you must have been trained and have had your name added to the trained user list; these instructions are not a substitute for this training. See the training section to understand how you can become qualified to use the laser cutter.

Although not a requirement, it is recommended someone else trained is also present when using the laser cutter. Having two pairs of eyes helps avoid forgotten steps, allows for double checking, clarifications and discussions, and ensures a greater pool of experience is both present and being built up as the laser is used.

'''Power Up'''

Give the machine a quick visual check. Make sure that there is nothing left on the bed, the water reservoir of the chiller looks normal, and that the equipment has no obvious damage or signs of being out-of-action. If the bed looks like it has residue on it, give it a wipe with IPA and a cloth.

Turn on primary switch on the trunking marked 'Laser'. The air filter system to the right of the laser cutter should start as should the air pump and the chiller. It should power up, make a decent amount of noise, and the lights should indicate the filter is in good condition (i.e. no need for replacement).

Make sure the lid is closed. Turn on the laser using the key on the right hand side. The inspection lamp should come on, a satisfying hum start up, and the cutter go into doing its self-checks.

Before doing any job, the laser should be left to warm up for 4-5 mins. While the machine warms up, power on the adjacent PC and start the LaserCut application from the desktop. During this time the water temperature shown on the chiller should drop from ambient temperature to the usual setting of 18C.

'''Load your Design'''

The PC software has an import facility which seems to be happy taking AutoCAD 2004 DXF files and other formats. The workspace of the laser bed is represented as the workarea in the LaserCut software. If the import doesn't do what you want size-wise, you can select the whole image and then use the 'size' command from the drop down menu to set the dimension you want. Clicking on the three dots ... symbol will adjust the other axis in the same proportion (keeping the aspect ratio fixed). Selecting the 'centre on bed' option will locate your imported drawing on the centre of the machine's cutting bed.

'''Assign Settings to Colours'''

Each part of your drawing that is assigned a different colour can have a different cut action assigned. Each colour will appear on the menu on the right hand side of the screen with numbers related to power and speed of the laser which will be used for the colour.

The main options are to Cut (line) or Engrave (raster fill). A marking on the material is a Cut. For each material and cutting depth required, a corresponding speed and power must be entered. The handbook provided with the machine gives suggested values for various materials but these should be considered as a starting point for a test. See the '''Power and Speed Settings''' section for our guidelines and experiences for these settings.

'''Download to the Cutter'''

Your drawing will feature a blue dot which represents the starting point of the laser; this is by default on the top right corner. In general, you will want to use "immediate" mode, which means this point represents wherever the laser is positioned when you start the job. You can also run the job in absolute mode by unchecking the box, making the job use absolute positioning on the workspace.

To download, select Download and Download Current; the download option will by default call the file on the laser cutter 'LASER'.

'''Set the Focus'''

Before each job, the focus needs to be checked and set by adjusting the height of the bed, and thus the work piece, from the lens. The critical dimension here is 41mm and several gauges made of perspex will be left around the machine. This gauge needs to be a fit between the top surface of the material you intend to cut and the white plastic 'flap' on the lens piece. The height of the table is adjusted using the UP and DOWN buttons. Failure to set the distance correctly will result in an out of focus laser and much bigger (but lower powered) cut line. Always ensure there is clearance between the material and laser head before the head moves.

'''Aligning and Testing the Job'''

The cutter's menu will show the most recent downloaded file highlighted. Pressing the 'test' button will make the head travel along the square maximum extends of the cuts. This shows you that you have the material in the right place, and you have enough of it! You can do this repeatedly, moving the work piece by hand or the laser head using the arrow keys (after hitting ESC), until you are confident you have things where you want them.

'''Cut the Job'''

When happy with the location of the material, close the lid and press 'start' to start the cutter. Watch the head and at least at first be prepared to press the 'stop' button immediately if you find you are burning massive holes in your work piece! This goes back to doing some tests on a sample of your material and making sure you are happy with the cut speeds and power you have selected. You should stay near the cutter at all times and be prepared to pause it or stop it in the event of fire.

<span style="color:red">'''DO NOT EVER LEAVE THE CUTTER UNATTENDED'''</span>

'''Finishing'''

The end of the job is signified by a beep. Waiting a few moments for the exhaust pump to clear any remaining smoke is a good idea, especially with wood, and will limit the build up of smells in the rest of the workshop. Remove your work piece, ensuring that all parts are cleared from the bed of the machine.

'''Power Down'''

The cutter is turned off using the key switch, then the air filtering system with the green rocker switch. Shut down the PC and double check that everything is left in a safe state for the next user.

'''Clean the bed of debris using the soft brush, then wipe down the bed using IPA and a cloth.'''

If you have been cutting particularly 'dirty' materials, most notable MDF and Ply which leave a sticky residue then you will need to use the course side of one of the oven pads and lots of 'elbow grease'. Residue on the bed can impact the next persons' job so please make the effort to clean up and leave the cutter as you would wish to find it.

Go away excited by what you can make and come back with lots more drawings!

== Power and Speed Settings ==

In due time we will try to build up a large sample stock of materials and record the values which work best. Here are the sample material tests we have so far:

<gallery>
File:Laser-schmoo-3mm-acrylic.JPG|3mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-10mm-acrylic.JPG|10mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-9mm-mdf.JPG|9mm MDF
</gallery>

== Tips & Tricks ==

* If the laser cutter's user interface does not seem to respond/do what you want, hit "ESC" to return to 'normal mode'.
* The opaque white acrylic needs slightly stronger settings for surface cuts as they are not as visible as in the transparent acrylic (i.e., for similar effect you need a deeper cut). Otherwise seems to cut equivalently to transparent acrylics.
* If you want a tight fit of pieces or very accurate sizing, keep in mind that the laser beam has a width of just over 0.1 mm (maybe 0.11 or 0.12 mm). So all exterior cut lines should be offset by 0.05 mm; you can do this very easily in the LaserCutter Software with the "Offset" tool (units are in mm, so enter '0.05' and select 'Outer').
* The DXF file format stores values only (not values and units). The internal units in the LaserCutter are in mm. If you set your document's units to mm in the exporting CAD system it should work fine, but generally it is a good idea to have a piece of geometry of known length, e.g. a line 100mm long, or a box of known size around your design. This makes adjusting the scaling a lot easier.
* If you want to export a DXF from Inkscape (which is a great, free vector drawing package), then make sure you do "Object to path" from the Path menu for the whole object and then during the export stage, enable "use ROBO-Master type of spline output". This should make sure all the curves and so on work.
* There's now a page to help with Inkscape and our laser at [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Inkscape]]
* If the jog buttons (arrow keys moving the laser head around) are only moving the head in small single steps rather than moving it continuously, make sure that the jog step size is set to 0.0mm in the Jog Settings section of the menu.

== Material Stock ==
If you have any requests for material stock, please add them the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Stock|Laser cutter stock]] page.

= Maintenance =

The maintenance of the Laser Cutter is carried out by the Owners, with some basic maintenance being carried out by Users on every job.

== Maintenance Schedule ==

Continuous Maintenance ('''Every job, done by all Laser Cutter Users''')
* Clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Clean any debris off laser bed and surround using soft brush

Basic Maintenance (Every week, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Clean the laser lens with IPA and cotton buds
* Oil the 3 runners with 3-in-one light oil
* Thoroughly clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Check the water level in the cooling tank
* Clean and remove debris from the machine base and catchment drawer

Full Maintenance (Every 4 weeks, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Check the water is clean in the cooling tank (i.e. no contamination/organic build up)
* Check filter unit for filter renewal
* Oil the 4 rise and fall lead screws with 3-in-one light oil
* Check mirrors and clean with a disposable sachet lens cleaner cloth (only if needed, mirror coatings are delicate)
* Work through mirror alignment procedure to check alignment of mirrors

== Maintenance Log ==

'''Reactive Maintenance'''
* 15th Jan 2013, Simon Ford: Laser cutter not powering up, with switching on via key gives no activity whatsoever. No recollection of it cutting out during a job (Alexis), so assume it just stopped turning on at some point. Filter box and power sockets confirmed OK. Diagnosis: RCD in right back panel of Laser reset to off, no obvious reason why. Switching back on brought everything back to life OK.
* 22nd, Simon Ford; 29th, Nicholas - same again.

'''Regular Maintenance'''
* Week Number, Date, Type, Owner (Notes)

2013
* January 7, Full, Chris @ HPCLaser'''
* January 14, Basic, Simon Ford
* January 21, Full, Simon Ford (running better than new :)'''
* ...various maintenance events happened...
* April 5th, Full, Simon Ford
* July 1st, Full, David Barham (realigned mirrors)
* July 15th, installed chiller

== Maintenance Shopping List ==

* 3-in-one light oil
* Cotton Buds
* Lens cleaner sachets
* Soft paint/cleaning brush
* Thermometer for water tank
* Hand held CO2 extinguisher

= Further Information =

* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser Product Page]
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=page&id=5&chapter=2 HPCLaser Technical Info]
* [http://www.laserscript.co.uk/phpBB3/ Laserscript Forum]

LaserCut 5.3
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/sale/35.html Homepage]
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/down/LaserCut5.3%20Manual%20V1.6.pdf Manual]

== Installation ==

<gallery>
File:Laser_-_van.JPG
File:Makespace-laser-install-02.JPG
File:Laser_-_building_2.JPG
File:Laser_-_building.JPG
</gallery>

== Purchase ==

Full Purchase, Delivery and Installation (£6865.00+vat = £8238.00)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser engraving and cutting machine, 600mm by 900mm 60W] (£5250.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=34 Laser Fume Filter] (£1250.00+vat)
* Delivery (£190+vat)
* Installation/Training (£175+vat)

== Repairs ==

We expect to have to change the following parts for general maintenance:
* The laser tube (guess every 6-12 months)
* The filter (guess every 3-6 months)
* The optics (guess every 6-12 months)

Maintenance and Spares:
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=3 60 watt C02 laser tube] (£275.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=12 50 mm Focus Meniscus Lens] (£75.00+vat)
* Estimate for Call Out (£200.00)

Equipment/Laser Cutter/Training

2013-11-22T10:53:36Z

Tmonca: /* Trained Users */

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]] / Training

= Laser Cutter Training =

This page documents the process for being trained on the Laser Cutter, and the list of members who have completed that training.

== Summary ==

Training takes place in three main steps:
* Group Training of 1-4 members, going through the equipment and how to use it (~1hr)
* Individual Training Task, where an individual member is set a task to complete to prove and improve understanding (~30min each)
* Project Oversight, where more experienced users oversee the projects being undertaken when cutting (first 2-3 projects)

Training on the Laser Cutter is run by the Laser Cutter Owners. The Laser Cutter Owners are a group of people responsible for maintaining and training on the laser cutter, and hence have been trained to train, and trained to perform the weekly and monthly maintenance on the laser cutter.

== Booking ==

Sessions are advertised on '''http://meetup.makespace.org'''
* For discussing training, or requesting additional slots if needed, use the mailing list thread: [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/vNrS07zVuY0/discussion Training : Laser Cutter]

Notes:
* You can only be trained if you have your name allocated to a slot (groups will be restricted to four at a time, so please don't make up additional spaces)
* You must do the group and individual training on the same day

= Trained Users =

The following members of Makespace are owners of the laser cutter, so are trained to use and teach use of the Laser Cutter:
* Simon Ford
* David Barham
* Nick Johnson
* Toby Moncaster

The following members of Makespace are trained and qualified to use the Laser Cutter (note, they are not qualified to train others however):
* Steve Upton (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Martin de Selincourt (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Oliver Jackson (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Simon Stirley (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Stephen Woolhead (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Martin Levine (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Uwe Borowski (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Peter Sewell (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Steve Loughran (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* ST John (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Henry Gomersall (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Brian Corteil (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Wayne Keenan (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Andrew Dunn (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* David Knell (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Tom Oinn (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Amir Chaudhry (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Anil Madhavapeddy (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Edward Imhagwe (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Michael Dales (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Laura James (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Robert Copcutt (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Phil Cowans (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Errol McMullen (Simon Ford, 9/03/2013)
* Gaye Soykok (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Mark Williamson (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Joe Tapply (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Dan Ros (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Paul Osborn (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* David Esteves (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Zé Pinto Ferreira (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Sharath (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Andy Jude (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Mark Mellors (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Chris Abri (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Tom Ingham (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Adrian van den Heever (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Chris Voth (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Archie Reid (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Rachel Rayns (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Giovanni Orlando (David Barham, 15/04/2013)
* Chunhe Yu (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Marko Cosic (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Mark Watson (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Andy Fisher (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* David Bebb (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Simon Haydn (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Adrian Carr (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* John Clamp (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Maciek Piatek (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Antonio Barragan (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* John Sturdy (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Roeland Schumacher (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Mark Tillotson (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Ward Hills (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Anne Harrison (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* William Morton (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Ali (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Rod Williams (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Toby Moncaster (Simon Ford, 30/5/2013)
* Damien Guihen (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Ben Evan (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Jake Young (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Shareef Jalloq (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Renee Chow (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Dan Tidhar, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Mat Cook, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Toby Roberts (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Jonathan Austin (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Stacy Smith (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Matt Harvey (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Marcin (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* James Waldmeyer (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Chris Wilson (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Kevin Maloney (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Harry Braviner (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Lee (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Jon Aas (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Armando Carlone (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Eckart Jack (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Pop Sharma (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Anthony Wainman (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Hazel Jenkins (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* James Hutton (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Jia Wei Lim (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Julius Schmidt (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Riccardo Gherardi (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Anna Stoilova (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Glyn Knowles (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* James Cooke (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Jennifer Herbert (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Simon Birrell (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Theo Sanderson (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Indy Wilkhu (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13 - practical to come)
* John Campbell (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Stephen Jeapes (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Chris Stanley (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Mat Greenwood (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Jonathon Brookfield (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Matt Grimes (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Richard Fosh (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Esther Leighton (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Katia Dilks (Toby Moncaster, 21/11/13)
* Tim Dilks (Toby Moncaster, 21/11/13)
* Alexander MacFaden (Toby Moncaster, 21/11/13)
* Brian Starkey (Toby Moncaster, 21/11/13)

= Training Cheatsheet =

The training structure and prompt sheet. Please note, this is used by the Laser Cutter Owners as a prompt to ensure training is executed in a consistent and complete fashion is included on this page; this does not constitute and is not a substitute for the training itself.

== Group Training ==

The group training introduction structure, suitable for 1-4 members at a time in a 1 hr session.

Introduction of main components
* Laser
* Cutting Mechanics
* Water Cooler System
* Filter
* PC
* Materials (what it can cut, supply)

Checks for everyone to do
* Check in use, looks ok
* Check water bath, temperature

Powering Up
* Turning on filter (Tick = ok, Warning = tell the owners, Cross = don't use it and tell the owners)
* Turning on Laser and warmup, what to do if doesn't power up
* Turning on PC and starting software

LaserCut Project walkthrough (using M+S+text keyring example)
* Package function, drawing, import file types
* Bed dimensions
* Paths, yellow dots, 'united' shapes
* Blue dot, Immediate mode
* Layers and colours
* Through cut, surface cut and engraving, speeds and strengths
* Various steps to build keyring design (shapes, text, uniting, layers, alignment, scaling, layers)
* Job ordering
* Saving
* Download as immediate, delete, download current

Laser Operation
* Lid
* Control panel, escape
* Moving head XY, indicator laser, datum
* Moving Z
* Focus
* Start position and test
* Start, pause and emergency stop function
* Do job, pause/open lid, restart

Laser Hazards
* Process and progression for normal operation failure (fire) - pause, open, move, CO2
* Process for abnormal operation failure (mechanical/jam) - emergency stop, open, move, CO2
* Ensure confident of process

Power Down
* Switch off laser
* Switch off filtration
* Clean any residue from the bed or bottom tray
* Close lid

== Individual Training Task ==

The individual task to get familiar, prompt questions and check understanding:

Task
* Make a personalised focus tool
* Square acrylic of appropriate size
* Member's name, "Focus Tool", keychain hole
* Should use full cut, surface cut, engrave
* Should demonstrate all steps, size, appropriate ordering, positioning

Steps
* Set individual to work, don't prompt but do answer questions (or pose if needed)
* Talk through design once done, question/check things etc
* Proceed to lasering (watch carefully all steps)
* Ask to stop job/restart, question escalation process

Assuming all ok:
* Get them to read the health and safety notes about operation and materials
* Add to the trained member list!

== Project Oversight ==

For next 2-3 projects, ensure member will find another more experienced trained user to support them (second pair of eyes)

Equipment/BicycleMaintain

2013-11-18T09:03:17Z

Tmonca: /* Bicycle Maintenance */

== Bicycle Maintenance ==

The proposal is to spend up to £500 on tools for bicycle maintenance. The aim is to get quality tools possibly with the eventual idea of running bike maintenance classes or drop-in sessions.

'''Main Tool Kit'''
[http://www.parktool.com/product/advanced-mechanic-tool-kit-ak-38|Park Tools Advanced Mechanic Tool kit] '''Costs £240''' (from wheelies.co.uk)

[[File:AK-38.png]]

[[Equipment/BicycleMaintain/TK1|Contents of AK-38]]

'''Torque wrench (cycle specific)'''

e.g. [http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/x-tools-pro-torque-wrench-and-bit-set/rp-prod55950?_$ja=tsid:46412|cgn:X-Tools+-+Tools|cn:Chain+Reaction-UK-PLA-PLA-All-DT-SE|kw:202687UK_X-Tools+Pro+Torque+Wrench+and+Bit+Set&gclid=COyptuDw67oCFQjKtAodEGcA3w|Pro Torque wrench & bit set] '''Cost ~£70'''

[[File:TorquePro.png]]

'''Work Stand'''

[http://www.parktool.com/product/home-mechanic-repair-stand-pcs-10|Park Tools PCS-10 folding stand] '''Cost £120''' (Various outlets)

[[File:PCS-10.png]]

'''General Maintenance'''

* Floor pump '''Cost up to £65'''

e.g. Lezyne Alloy Floor Pump (£55):
[[File:Lezyne.png]]

* Haynes "The Bike Book" '''Cost ~£10'''

[[File:HaynesBike.png]]

File:PCS-10.png

2013-11-17T14:59:05Z

Tmonca: uploaded a new version of "File:PCS-10.png"

Park Tools PCS-10 repair stand

Equipment/BicycleMaintain

2013-11-17T13:12:43Z

Tmonca: /* Bicycle Maintenance */

File:PCS-10.png

2013-11-17T13:12:04Z

Tmonca: Park Tools PCS-10 repair stand

Park Tools PCS-10 repair stand

File:TorquePro.png

2013-11-17T13:10:51Z

Tmonca: Pro Bike Torque Wrench

Pro Bike Torque Wrench

File:AK-38.png

2013-11-17T13:09:30Z

Tmonca: Contents of Park Tools Advanced Home Mechanic Tool Kit

Contents of Park Tools Advanced Home Mechanic Tool Kit

Equipment/BicycleMaintain

2013-11-17T13:04:41Z

Tmonca: Created page with "== Bicycle Maintenance == The proposal is to spend up to £500 on tools for bicycle maintenance. The aim is to get quality tools possibly with the eventual idea of running bike ..."

== Bicycle Maintenance ==

The proposal is to spend up to £500 on tools for bicycle maintenance. The aim is to get quality tools possibly with the eventual idea of running bike maintenance classes or drop-in sessions.

'''Main Tool Kit'''
[http://www.parktool.com/product/advanced-mechanic-tool-kit-ak-38|Park Tools Advanced Mechanic Tool kit] '''Costs £240''' (from wheelies.co.uk)

[[Equipment/BicycleMaintain/TK1|Contents of AK-38]]

'''Torque wrench (cycle specific)'''

e.g. [http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/x-tools-pro-torque-wrench-and-bit-set/rp-prod55950?_$ja=tsid:46412|cgn:X-Tools+-+Tools|cn:Chain+Reaction-UK-PLA-PLA-All-DT-SE|kw:202687UK_X-Tools+Pro+Torque+Wrench+and+Bit+Set&gclid=COyptuDw67oCFQjKtAodEGcA3w|Pro Torque wrench & bit set] '''Cost ~£70'''

'''Work Stand'''

[http://www.parktool.com/product/home-mechanic-repair-stand-pcs-10|Park Tools PCS-10 folding stand] '''Cost £120''' (Various outlets)

'''General Maintenance'''

* Floor pump '''Cost up to £65'''
* Haynes "The Bike Book" '''Cost £10'''

Equipment/BicycleMaintain/TK2

2013-11-17T12:58:23Z

Tmonca: Created page with "Ek-1 tool kit comprises: * 4, 5, 6mm Hex Wrench Set * 2, 2.5, 3mm Hex Wrench Set * Folding Hex Set, 1.5 to 6mm * 8mm Hex Wrench * 10mm Hex Wrench * Fold Up Star Driver, 12 point..."

Ek-1 tool kit comprises:
* 4, 5, 6mm Hex Wrench Set
* 2, 2.5, 3mm Hex Wrench Set
* Folding Hex Set, 1.5 to 6mm
* 8mm Hex Wrench
* 10mm Hex Wrench
* Fold Up Star Driver, 12 point, T7 to T40
* Bottom Bracket/ Cassette Lockring Tool for Campagnolo
* Bottom Bracket Tools for other types (spline and square)
* Chain Wear Indicator
* Crank Wrench
* Chainring Nut Wrench
* 8mm combination wrench
* 9mm combination wrench
*10mm combination wrench
* Adjustable Wrench
* 13mm to 19mm Shop Cone Wrench Set
* Synthetic Blend Chain Lube
* Cable and Housing Cutter
* Master Chain Tool with Peening Anvil
* Crank Puller
* Cassette Lockring Tool for Shimano® and similar brands
* GearClean Brush
* 32 and 36mm Laser Cut Headset Wrench
* Double Sided Hammer
* Master Link Pliers
* PolyLube 1000 Grease
* Pedal Wrench
* Tape Measure
* Screw Driver Set: #0 and #2 Cross Tip (phillips) Screwdrivers, 3mm and 6mm Flat Blade Screwdrivers
* Sprocket Removal Tool
* Professional Spoke Wrenches
* Tire Levers
* Utility Knife

Equipment/BicycleMaintain/TK1

2013-11-17T12:48:49Z

Tmonca: Created page with "Contents of Park Tools Home Mechanic Tool kit * 4, 5, 6mm Hex Wrench Set * 2.5, 3mm Y Hex Wrench Set * 8mm hex tool * T10, T25, T30: Torx® Compatible Three-Way Wrench * Bottom B..."

Contents of Park Tools Home Mechanic Tool kit
* 4, 5, 6mm Hex Wrench Set
* 2.5, 3mm Y Hex Wrench Set
* 8mm hex tool
* T10, T25, T30: Torx® Compatible Three-Way Wrench
* Bottom Bracket tool for 16 notch external crankset system cups (SRAM, Shimano, FSA, Truvativ, Race Face, Zipp, etc)
* Cartridge Bottom Bracket Tool (for 20 tooth internal splines, such as Shimano®, FSA®, etc.)
* 8, 9, 10 and 11mm Open End Wrench
* Chain Checker Chain Wear Indicator
* Cable and Housing Cutter
* Chainring Nut Wrench
* Professional Screw Type Chain Tool
* Crank Puller for Splined Octalink®, ISIS Drive®, and square-taper type
* Cassette Lockring Tool for Shimano® and similar brands
* Pedal Wrench
* 13mm - 19mm Professional Shop Cone Wrenches
* Shop Screwdriver #0 & #1 Phillips and 3mm & 6mm flat
* 5 to 11-Speed Compatible Chain Whip/Sprocket Remover
* Professional Spoke Wrenches
* Professional Spoke Wrench
* Tire Boot
* Tire Levers
* Vulcanizing Patch Kit
* PolyLube 1000 Grease
* Synthetic Blend Chain Lube
* Cyclone Chain Cleaner
* GearClean Brush

Equipment

2013-11-17T12:16:31Z

Tmonca: /* Proposals and Notes */

[[File:Laser-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
[[File:Makerbot-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
[[File:Roland-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
[[File:WP_20130509_005.jpg||thumb|320px|link=Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
[[File:Lathe-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
[[File:Powertools-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
[[File:Electronics-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
[[File:fine_metal_DSC_7694.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine metalwork Workbench]]
[[File:8633913103 92f52a697d c.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking bench]]
[[File:300xq.PNG|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]

The equipment you can find in Makespace.

== Using our Equipment ==

There is a large and growing variety of equipment and tools; some are safe to use, some can be dangerous or are expensive and need training before use. We have divided all the tools below into [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]]. Make sure you understand which class a tool is in before you attempt to use it, and read the associated wiki page.

[[The right tool for the job]] has some notes on what tools to use for various tasks.

Smaller equipment is listed on the [[Things and stuff]] page.

== The Workshop ==

* [[Equipment/BandSaw|BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
* [[Equipment/Drill_Presses|Drill Presses]]
* [[Equipment/Grinder|Grinder]]
* [[Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
* Metalwork Benches
*[[Equipment/MitreSawRage3Db|Mitre/Chop Saw]]
* [[Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline lathe|Sherline lathe]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline mill|Sherline mill]]
* Woodwork Benches
* [[Equipment/WoodLathe|Woodworking Lathe]]

== The Space ==

* [[Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
* [[Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine Metalwork Bench]] and [[Equipment/Flexible_Shaft_Drill|Flexible Shaft Drill]]
* [[Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking kiln, torch and associated tools]]
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
* [[Equipment/PCB_Mill|PCB Mill]]
* [http://www.pattesters.co.uk/pat-testers/basic-pat-testers/seaward-primetest-100-pat-tester PrimeTest 100 PAT Tester]
* [[Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]
* [[Equipment/Vinyl_Cutter|Vinyl Cutter]]
* General Tools
** [http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/clarke-cht641-199-piece-diy-tool-kit-with-cant Clarke CHT641 199 Piece DIY Tool Kit With Cantilever Tool Box]

== Proposals and Notes ==

* [[Equipment/CNC_Metal_Mill|CNC Metal Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Hand_Tools|Hand Tools]]
* [[Equipment/PurchasedFromGrant]]
** [[Equipment/BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/Stained_Glass|Stained Glass]]
* [[Equipment/BicycleMaintain|Bicycle Maintenance]]

== Related ==
* Full equipment database [http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/ http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/].
* [[Infrastructure|Makespace Infrastructure]]
* [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]] - for safety and training requirements.
* [[Equipment/NewKit|New Kit]] - process for adding to our equipment inventory.
* [http://techtv.mit.edu/collections/ehs-videos/videos Introduction to Machine Shop Tools and Skills]

Equipment/WoodLathe

2013-11-05T11:30:51Z

Tmonca: /* Owners */

{{RedTool}}

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / WoodLathe

[[File:??.jpg|thumb|420px|right|Our woodworking lathe]]

= Summary =

We have a woodworking lathe kindly donated to us on indefinite loan by Kim Spence-Jones. It is a quality machine in fair condition but it is capable of causing severe injury so it must only be used by those trained to operate it safely. The 'owners' are responsible for training new users and ensuring that it is maintained in a safe condition.

=== To do before it's usable: ===

* Tidy cable grommet/re-PAT-test
* Fit emergency stop switch, and safety cut-out on pulley guard.
* Clean off rust, and re-paint as necessary
* Find permanent location and bolt down
* Risk assessment
* Training course syllabus
* Add essential extra tools & accessories
* Acquire Tormec wet grinder?
* Document the speed settings

<gallery>
File:??.jpg
</gallery>

= Using the woodworking lathe =

The lathe is a wood turning lathe capable of machining circular cuts in material up to about 30cm (12 inches) in diameter for bowls (20cm for spindles) and about 125cm (4') long. At the moment we only have centres; faceplates can be used, and will be added to the accessories later. The lathe is solidly built so with care excellent results can be obtained. We currently have three lathe tools, which should allow most basic woodworking operations to be undertaken.

This lathe has five speeds, it cannot be run in reverse.

== Safety ==

The workpiece is spun at high speed with great force. Clothing or hair caught in the workpiece will not slow the motor! Before starting take time to check there is nothing likely to be caught in the machine.

Chips can be thrown off the workpiece at high speed so eye protection is important.

Unbalanced workpieces can shake loose and fly in any direction. Take care when mounting your job.

To achieve real safety operator attitude is key. Trying to achieve unrealistic goals in limited time is the prime cause of accidents. Please take the time to plan your work and gain sufficient knowledge to perform it safely.

The live centre is sharp. When you're not using it, take it out so you don't spike yourself with it.

== Owners ==

The owners are experienced users who have volunteered to ensure members know how to safely operate the lathe before they become approved users. Their next responsibility is to ensure the lathe is in a safe usable condition. Time permitting, they will advise users on how to make best use of the lathe.

So far the owners are;
* [[user:Kim_SJ|Kim Spence-Jones]]
* [[user:tmonca|Toby Moncaster]] (TobyM on mailing list)
* Steve Kelly
* Mat Greenwood (Mat the Carpenter)

== Training ==

<div style="background:#FADADD; border:1px solid #FFC0CB; padding:5px">
THE LATHE IS NOT YET APPROVED FOR USE. Risk assesment/training material/etc has not yet been created, and the lathe needs some tlc.

THE LATHE CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY. ONLY APPROVED OPERATORS ARE PERMITTED TO USE IT.
</div>

To get the required training to become an approved operator please contact one of the owners.

The owners will help users make the best use of the lathe but it must be emphasised that learning to take full advantage of all the capabilities of it takes months of practice. The owners have limited time so members will need to take responsibility for much of their own training. More details about the training can be found at

* [[Equipment/WoodLathe/Training|Woodworking Lathe Training]]

== Instructions ==

=== Safety Advice ===
[http://www.woodturner.org/resources/safety.htm American Association of Woodturners' Safety Advice]

[http://www.safetyservicescompany.com/topic/training/wood-lathe-safety-tips/ Wood Lathe Safety Tips]

=== Useful Links ===

[http://www.cambridge-woodturners.co.uk/ Cambridge Woodturners]

More to be detailed

= Maintenance =

To be detailed

== Peripheral tools and accessories ==

Photo-list of current [[Equipment/WoodLathe/Accessories|Woodworking lathe accessories]].

Running the lathe will require many accessories, a suggested list will be developed

Equipment/Laser Cutter/Training

2013-11-04T16:02:24Z

Tmonca: /* Trained Users */

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]] / Training

= Laser Cutter Training =

This page documents the process for being trained on the Laser Cutter, and the list of members who have completed that training.

== Summary ==

Training takes place in three main steps:
* Group Training of 1-4 members, going through the equipment and how to use it (~1hr)
* Individual Training Task, where an individual member is set a task to complete to prove and improve understanding (~30min each)
* Project Oversight, where more experienced users oversee the projects being undertaken when cutting (first 2-3 projects)

Training on the Laser Cutter is run by the Laser Cutter Owners. The Laser Cutter Owners are a group of people responsible for maintaining and training on the laser cutter, and hence have been trained to train, and trained to perform the weekly and monthly maintenance on the laser cutter.

== Booking ==

Sessions are advertised on '''http://meetup.makespace.org'''
* For discussing training, or requesting additional slots if needed, use the mailing list thread: [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/vNrS07zVuY0/discussion Training : Laser Cutter]

Notes:
* You can only be trained if you have your name allocated to a slot (groups will be restricted to four at a time, so please don't make up additional spaces)
* You must do the group and individual training on the same day

= Trained Users =

The following members of Makespace are owners of the laser cutter, so are trained to use and teach use of the Laser Cutter:
* Simon Ford
* David Barham
* Nick Johnson
* Toby Moncaster

The following members of Makespace are trained and qualified to use the Laser Cutter (note, they are not qualified to train others however):
* Steve Upton (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Martin de Selincourt (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Oliver Jackson (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Simon Stirley (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Stephen Woolhead (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Martin Levine (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Uwe Borowski (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Peter Sewell (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Steve Loughran (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* ST John (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Henry Gomersall (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Brian Corteil (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Wayne Keenan (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Andrew Dunn (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* David Knell (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Tom Oinn (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Amir Chaudhry (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Anil Madhavapeddy (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Edward Imhagwe (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Michael Dales (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Laura James (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Robert Copcutt (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Phil Cowans (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Errol McMullen (Simon Ford, 9/03/2013)
* Gaye Soykok (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Mark Williamson (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Joe Tapply (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Dan Ros (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Paul Osborn (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* David Esteves (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Zé Pinto Ferreira (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Sharath (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Andy Jude (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Mark Mellors (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Chris Abri (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Tom Ingham (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Adrian van den Heever (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Chris Voth (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Archie Reid (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Rachel Rayns (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Giovanni Orlando (David Barham, 15/04/2013)
* Chunhe Yu (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Marko Cosic (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Mark Watson (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Andy Fisher (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* David Bebb (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Simon Haydn (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Adrian Carr (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* John Clamp (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Maciek Piatek (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Antonio Barragan (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* John Sturdy (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Roeland Schumacher (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Mark Tillotson (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Ward Hills (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Anne Harrison (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* William Morton (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Ali (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Rod Williams (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Toby Moncaster (Simon Ford, 30/5/2013)
* Damien Guihen (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Ben Evan (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Jake Young (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Shareef Jalloq (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Renee Chow (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Dan Tidhar, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Mat Cook, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Toby Roberts (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Jonathan Austin (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Stacy Smith (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Matt Harvey (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Marcin (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* James Waldmeyer (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Chris Wilson (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Kevin Maloney (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Harry Braviner (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Lee (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Jon Aas (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Armando Carlone (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Eckart Jack (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Pop Sharma (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Anthony Wainman (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Hazel Jenkins (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* James Hutton (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Jia Wei Lim (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Julius Schmidt (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Riccardo Gherardi (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Anna Stoilova (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Glyn Knowles (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* James Cooke (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Jennifer Herbert (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Simon Birrell (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Theo Sanderson (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Indy Wilkhu (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13 - practical to come)
* John Campbell (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Stephen Jeapes (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Chris Stanley (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Mat Greenwood (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Jonathon Brookfield (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Matt Grimes (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Richard Fosh (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Esther Leighton (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)

= Training Cheatsheet =

The training structure and prompt sheet. Please note, this is used by the Laser Cutter Owners as a prompt to ensure training is executed in a consistent and complete fashion is included on this page; this does not constitute and is not a substitute for the training itself.

== Group Training ==

The group training introduction structure, suitable for 1-4 members at a time in a 1 hr session.

Introduction of main components
* Laser
* Cutting Mechanics
* Water Cooler System
* Filter
* PC
* Materials (what it can cut, supply)

Checks for everyone to do
* Check in use, looks ok
* Check water bath, temperature

Powering Up
* Turning on filter (Tick = ok, Warning = tell the owners, Cross = don't use it and tell the owners)
* Turning on Laser and warmup, what to do if doesn't power up
* Turning on PC and starting software

LaserCut Project walkthrough (using M+S+text keyring example)
* Package function, drawing, import file types
* Bed dimensions
* Paths, yellow dots, 'united' shapes
* Blue dot, Immediate mode
* Layers and colours
* Through cut, surface cut and engraving, speeds and strengths
* Various steps to build keyring design (shapes, text, uniting, layers, alignment, scaling, layers)
* Job ordering
* Saving
* Download as immediate, delete, download current

Laser Operation
* Lid
* Control panel, escape
* Moving head XY, indicator laser, datum
* Moving Z
* Focus
* Start position and test
* Start, pause and emergency stop function
* Do job, pause/open lid, restart

Laser Hazards
* Process and progression for normal operation failure (fire) - pause, open, move, CO2
* Process for abnormal operation failure (mechanical/jam) - emergency stop, open, move, CO2
* Ensure confident of process

Power Down
* Switch off laser
* Switch off filtration
* Clean any residue from the bed or bottom tray
* Close lid

== Individual Training Task ==

The individual task to get familiar, prompt questions and check understanding:

Task
* Make a personalised focus tool
* Square acrylic of appropriate size
* Member's name, "Focus Tool", keychain hole
* Should use full cut, surface cut, engrave
* Should demonstrate all steps, size, appropriate ordering, positioning

Steps
* Set individual to work, don't prompt but do answer questions (or pose if needed)
* Talk through design once done, question/check things etc
* Proceed to lasering (watch carefully all steps)
* Ask to stop job/restart, question escalation process

Assuming all ok:
* Get them to read the health and safety notes about operation and materials
* Add to the trained member list!

== Project Oversight ==

For next 2-3 projects, ensure member will find another more experienced trained user to support them (second pair of eyes)

Equipment/Laser Cutter/Training

2013-11-01T15:24:52Z

Tmonca: /* Trained Users */

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]] / Training

= Laser Cutter Training =

This page documents the process for being trained on the Laser Cutter, and the list of members who have completed that training.

== Summary ==

Training takes place in three main steps:
* Group Training of 1-4 members, going through the equipment and how to use it (~1hr)
* Individual Training Task, where an individual member is set a task to complete to prove and improve understanding (~30min each)
* Project Oversight, where more experienced users oversee the projects being undertaken when cutting (first 2-3 projects)

Training on the Laser Cutter is run by the Laser Cutter Owners. The Laser Cutter Owners are a group of people responsible for maintaining and training on the laser cutter, and hence have been trained to train, and trained to perform the weekly and monthly maintenance on the laser cutter.

== Booking ==

Sessions are advertised on '''http://meetup.makespace.org'''
* For discussing training, or requesting additional slots if needed, use the mailing list thread: [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/vNrS07zVuY0/discussion Training : Laser Cutter]

Notes:
* You can only be trained if you have your name allocated to a slot (groups will be restricted to four at a time, so please don't make up additional spaces)
* You must do the group and individual training on the same day

= Trained Users =

The following members of Makespace are owners of the laser cutter, so are trained to use and teach use of the Laser Cutter:
* Simon Ford
* David Barham
* Nick Johnson
* Toby Moncaster

The following members of Makespace are trained and qualified to use the Laser Cutter (note, they are not qualified to train others however):
* Steve Upton (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Martin de Selincourt (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Oliver Jackson (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Simon Stirley (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Stephen Woolhead (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Martin Levine (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Uwe Borowski (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Peter Sewell (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Steve Loughran (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* ST John (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Henry Gomersall (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Brian Corteil (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Wayne Keenan (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Andrew Dunn (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* David Knell (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Tom Oinn (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Amir Chaudhry (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Anil Madhavapeddy (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Edward Imhagwe (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Michael Dales (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Laura James (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Robert Copcutt (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Phil Cowans (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Errol McMullen (Simon Ford, 9/03/2013)
* Gaye Soykok (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Mark Williamson (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Joe Tapply (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Dan Ros (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Paul Osborn (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* David Esteves (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Zé Pinto Ferreira (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Sharath (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Andy Jude (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Mark Mellors (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Chris Abri (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Tom Ingham (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Adrian van den Heever (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Chris Voth (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Archie Reid (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Rachel Rayns (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Giovanni Orlando (David Barham, 15/04/2013)
* Chunhe Yu (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Marko Cosic (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Mark Watson (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Andy Fisher (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* David Bebb (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Simon Haydn (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Adrian Carr (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* John Clamp (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Maciek Piatek (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Antonio Barragan (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* John Sturdy (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Roeland Schumacher (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Mark Tillotson (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Ward Hills (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Anne Harrison (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* William Morton (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Ali (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Rod Williams (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Toby Moncaster (Simon Ford, 30/5/2013)
* Damien Guihen (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Ben Evan (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Jake Young (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Shareef Jalloq (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Renee Chow (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Dan Tidhar, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Mat Cook, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Toby Roberts (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Jonathan Austin (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Stacy Smith (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Matt Harvey (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Marcin (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* James Waldmeyer (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Chris Wilson (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Kevin Maloney (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Harry Braviner (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Lee (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Jon Aas (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Armando Carlone (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Eckart Jack (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Pop Sharma (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Anthony Wainman (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Hazel Jenkins (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* James Hutton (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Jia Wei Lim (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Julius Schmidt (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Riccardo Gherardi (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Anna Stoilova (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Glyn Knowles (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* James Cooke (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Jennifer Herbert (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Simon Birrell (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Theo Sanderson (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Indy Wilkhu (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13 - practical to come)
* John Campbell (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Stephen Jeapes (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Chris Stanley (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Mat Greenwood (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Jonathon Brookfield (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Matt Grimes (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Richard Fosh (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13)
* Esther Leighton (Toby Moncaster, 30/10/13 - practical to come)

= Training Cheatsheet =

The training structure and prompt sheet. Please note, this is used by the Laser Cutter Owners as a prompt to ensure training is executed in a consistent and complete fashion is included on this page; this does not constitute and is not a substitute for the training itself.

== Group Training ==

The group training introduction structure, suitable for 1-4 members at a time in a 1 hr session.

Introduction of main components
* Laser
* Cutting Mechanics
* Water Cooler System
* Filter
* PC
* Materials (what it can cut, supply)

Checks for everyone to do
* Check in use, looks ok
* Check water bath, temperature

Powering Up
* Turning on filter (Tick = ok, Warning = tell the owners, Cross = don't use it and tell the owners)
* Turning on Laser and warmup, what to do if doesn't power up
* Turning on PC and starting software

LaserCut Project walkthrough (using M+S+text keyring example)
* Package function, drawing, import file types
* Bed dimensions
* Paths, yellow dots, 'united' shapes
* Blue dot, Immediate mode
* Layers and colours
* Through cut, surface cut and engraving, speeds and strengths
* Various steps to build keyring design (shapes, text, uniting, layers, alignment, scaling, layers)
* Job ordering
* Saving
* Download as immediate, delete, download current

Laser Operation
* Lid
* Control panel, escape
* Moving head XY, indicator laser, datum
* Moving Z
* Focus
* Start position and test
* Start, pause and emergency stop function
* Do job, pause/open lid, restart

Laser Hazards
* Process and progression for normal operation failure (fire) - pause, open, move, CO2
* Process for abnormal operation failure (mechanical/jam) - emergency stop, open, move, CO2
* Ensure confident of process

Power Down
* Switch off laser
* Switch off filtration
* Clean any residue from the bed or bottom tray
* Close lid

== Individual Training Task ==

The individual task to get familiar, prompt questions and check understanding:

Task
* Make a personalised focus tool
* Square acrylic of appropriate size
* Member's name, "Focus Tool", keychain hole
* Should use full cut, surface cut, engrave
* Should demonstrate all steps, size, appropriate ordering, positioning

Steps
* Set individual to work, don't prompt but do answer questions (or pose if needed)
* Talk through design once done, question/check things etc
* Proceed to lasering (watch carefully all steps)
* Ask to stop job/restart, question escalation process

Assuming all ok:
* Get them to read the health and safety notes about operation and materials
* Add to the trained member list!

== Project Oversight ==

For next 2-3 projects, ensure member will find another more experienced trained user to support them (second pair of eyes)

Equipment/Laser Cutter/Training

2013-10-24T19:44:09Z

Tmonca: /* Trained Users */

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]] / Training

= Laser Cutter Training =

This page documents the process for being trained on the Laser Cutter, and the list of members who have completed that training.

== Summary ==

Training takes place in three main steps:
* Group Training of 1-4 members, going through the equipment and how to use it (~1hr)
* Individual Training Task, where an individual member is set a task to complete to prove and improve understanding (~30min each)
* Project Oversight, where more experienced users oversee the projects being undertaken when cutting (first 2-3 projects)

Training on the Laser Cutter is run by the Laser Cutter Owners. The Laser Cutter Owners are a group of people responsible for maintaining and training on the laser cutter, and hence have been trained to train, and trained to perform the weekly and monthly maintenance on the laser cutter.

== Booking ==

Sessions are advertised on '''http://meetup.makespace.org'''
* For discussing training, or requesting additional slots if needed, use the mailing list thread: [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/vNrS07zVuY0/discussion Training : Laser Cutter]

Notes:
* You can only be trained if you have your name allocated to a slot (groups will be restricted to four at a time, so please don't make up additional spaces)
* You must do the group and individual training on the same day

= Trained Users =

The following members of Makespace are owners of the laser cutter, so are trained to use and teach use of the Laser Cutter:
* Simon Ford
* David Barham
* Nick Johnson
* Toby Moncaster

The following members of Makespace are trained and qualified to use the Laser Cutter (note, they are not qualified to train others however):
* Steve Upton (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Martin de Selincourt (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Oliver Jackson (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Simon Stirley (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Stephen Woolhead (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Martin Levine (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Uwe Borowski (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Peter Sewell (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Steve Loughran (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* ST John (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Henry Gomersall (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Brian Corteil (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Wayne Keenan (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Andrew Dunn (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* David Knell (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Tom Oinn (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Amir Chaudhry (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Anil Madhavapeddy (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Edward Imhagwe (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Michael Dales (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Laura James (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Robert Copcutt (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Phil Cowans (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Errol McMullen (Simon Ford, 9/03/2013)
* Gaye Soykok (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Mark Williamson (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Joe Tapply (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Dan Ros (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Paul Osborn (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* David Esteves (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Zé Pinto Ferreira (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Sharath (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Andy Jude (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Mark Mellors (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Chris Abri (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Tom Ingham (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Adrian van den Heever (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Chris Voth (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Archie Reid (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Rachel Rayns (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Giovanni Orlando (David Barham, 15/04/2013)
* Chunhe Yu (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Marko Cosic (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Mark Watson (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Andy Fisher (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* David Bebb (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Simon Haydn (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Adrian Carr (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* John Clamp (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Maciek Piatek (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Antonio Barragan (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* John Sturdy (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Roeland Schumacher (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Mark Tillotson (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Ward Hills (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Anne Harrison (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* William Morton (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Ali (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Rod Williams (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Toby Moncaster (Simon Ford, 30/5/2013)
* Damien Guihen (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Ben Evan (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Jake Young (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Shareef Jalloq (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Renee Chow (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Dan Tidhar, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Mat Cook, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Toby Roberts (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Jonathan Austin (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Stacy Smith (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Matt Harvey (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Marcin (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* James Waldmeyer (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Chris Wilson (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Kevin Maloney (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Harry Braviner (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Lee (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Jon Aas (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Armando Carlone (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Eckart Jack (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Pop Sharma (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Anthony Wainman (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Hazel Jenkins (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* James Hutton (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Jia Wei Lim (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Julius Schmidt (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Riccardo Gherardi (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Anna Stoilova (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Glyn Knowles (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* James Cooke (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Jennifer Herbert (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Simon Birrell (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Theo Sanderson (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13)
* Indy Wilkhu (Toby Moncaster, 23/10/13 - practical to come)

= Training Cheatsheet =

The training structure and prompt sheet. Please note, this is used by the Laser Cutter Owners as a prompt to ensure training is executed in a consistent and complete fashion is included on this page; this does not constitute and is not a substitute for the training itself.

== Group Training ==

The group training introduction structure, suitable for 1-4 members at a time in a 1 hr session.

Introduction of main components
* Laser
* Cutting Mechanics
* Water Cooler System
* Filter
* PC
* Materials (what it can cut, supply)

Checks for everyone to do
* Check in use, looks ok
* Check water bath, temperature

Powering Up
* Turning on filter (Tick = ok, Warning = tell the owners, Cross = don't use it and tell the owners)
* Turning on Laser and warmup, what to do if doesn't power up
* Turning on PC and starting software

LaserCut Project walkthrough (using M+S+text keyring example)
* Package function, drawing, import file types
* Bed dimensions
* Paths, yellow dots, 'united' shapes
* Blue dot, Immediate mode
* Layers and colours
* Through cut, surface cut and engraving, speeds and strengths
* Various steps to build keyring design (shapes, text, uniting, layers, alignment, scaling, layers)
* Job ordering
* Saving
* Download as immediate, delete, download current

Laser Operation
* Lid
* Control panel, escape
* Moving head XY, indicator laser, datum
* Moving Z
* Focus
* Start position and test
* Start, pause and emergency stop function
* Do job, pause/open lid, restart

Laser Hazards
* Process and progression for normal operation failure (fire) - pause, open, move, CO2
* Process for abnormal operation failure (mechanical/jam) - emergency stop, open, move, CO2
* Ensure confident of process

Power Down
* Switch off laser
* Switch off filtration
* Clean any residue from the bed or bottom tray
* Close lid

== Individual Training Task ==

The individual task to get familiar, prompt questions and check understanding:

Task
* Make a personalised focus tool
* Square acrylic of appropriate size
* Member's name, "Focus Tool", keychain hole
* Should use full cut, surface cut, engrave
* Should demonstrate all steps, size, appropriate ordering, positioning

Steps
* Set individual to work, don't prompt but do answer questions (or pose if needed)
* Talk through design once done, question/check things etc
* Proceed to lasering (watch carefully all steps)
* Ask to stop job/restart, question escalation process

Assuming all ok:
* Get them to read the health and safety notes about operation and materials
* Add to the trained member list!

== Project Oversight ==

For next 2-3 projects, ensure member will find another more experienced trained user to support them (second pair of eyes)

Equipment/Laser Cutter/Training

2013-10-15T10:54:22Z

Tmonca: /* Trained Users */

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]] / Training

= Laser Cutter Training =

This page documents the process for being trained on the Laser Cutter, and the list of members who have completed that training.

== Summary ==

Training takes place in three main steps:
* Group Training of 1-4 members, going through the equipment and how to use it (~1hr)
* Individual Training Task, where an individual member is set a task to complete to prove and improve understanding (~30min each)
* Project Oversight, where more experienced users oversee the projects being undertaken when cutting (first 2-3 projects)

Training on the Laser Cutter is run by the Laser Cutter Owners. The Laser Cutter Owners are a group of people responsible for maintaining and training on the laser cutter, and hence have been trained to train, and trained to perform the weekly and monthly maintenance on the laser cutter.

== Booking ==

Sessions are advertised on '''http://meetup.makespace.org'''
* For discussing training, or requesting additional slots if needed, use the mailing list thread: [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/vNrS07zVuY0/discussion Training : Laser Cutter]

Notes:
* You can only be trained if you have your name allocated to a slot (groups will be restricted to four at a time, so please don't make up additional spaces)
* You must do the group and individual training on the same day

= Trained Users =

The following members of Makespace are owners of the laser cutter, so are trained to use and teach use of the Laser Cutter:
* Simon Ford
* David Barham
* Nick Johnson
* Toby Moncaster

The following members of Makespace are trained and qualified to use the Laser Cutter (note, they are not qualified to train others however):
* Steve Upton (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Martin de Selincourt (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Oliver Jackson (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Simon Stirley (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Stephen Woolhead (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Martin Levine (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Uwe Borowski (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Peter Sewell (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Steve Loughran (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* ST John (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Henry Gomersall (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Brian Corteil (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Wayne Keenan (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Andrew Dunn (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* David Knell (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Tom Oinn (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Amir Chaudhry (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Anil Madhavapeddy (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Edward Imhagwe (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Michael Dales (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Laura James (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Robert Copcutt (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Phil Cowans (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Errol McMullen (Simon Ford, 9/03/2013)
* Gaye Soykok (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Mark Williamson (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Joe Tapply (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Dan Ros (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Paul Osborn (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* David Esteves (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Zé Pinto Ferreira (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Sharath (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Andy Jude (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Mark Mellors (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Chris Abri (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Tom Ingham (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Adrian van den Heever (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Chris Voth (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Archie Reid (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Rachel Rayns (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Giovanni Orlando (David Barham, 15/04/2013)
* Chunhe Yu (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Marko Cosic (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Mark Watson (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Andy Fisher (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* David Bebb (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Simon Haydn (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Adrian Carr (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* John Clamp (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Maciek Piatek (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Antonio Barragan (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* John Sturdy (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Roeland Schumacher (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Mark Tillotson (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Ward Hills (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Anne Harrison (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* William Morton (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Ali (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Rod Williams (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Toby Moncaster (Simon Ford, 30/5/2013)
* Damien Guihen (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Ben Evan (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Jake Young (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Shareef Jalloq (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Renee Chow (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Dan Tidhar, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Mat Cook, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Toby Roberts (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Jonathan Austin (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Stacy Smith (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Matt Harvey (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Marcin (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* James Waldmeyer (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Chris Wilson (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Kevin Maloney (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Harry Braviner (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Lee (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Jon Aas (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Armando Carlone (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Eckart Jack (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Pop Sharma (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Anthony Wainman (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Hazel Jenkins (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* James Hutton (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Jia Wei Lim (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)
* Julius Schmidt (Toby Moncaster, 13/10/13)

= Training Cheatsheet =

The training structure and prompt sheet. Please note, this is used by the Laser Cutter Owners as a prompt to ensure training is executed in a consistent and complete fashion is included on this page; this does not constitute and is not a substitute for the training itself.

== Group Training ==

The group training introduction structure, suitable for 1-4 members at a time in a 1 hr session.

Introduction of main components
* Laser
* Cutting Mechanics
* Water Cooler System
* Filter
* PC
* Materials (what it can cut, supply)

Checks for everyone to do
* Check in use, looks ok
* Check water bath, temperature

Powering Up
* Turning on filter (Tick = ok, Warning = tell the owners, Cross = don't use it and tell the owners)
* Turning on Laser and warmup, what to do if doesn't power up
* Turning on PC and starting software

LaserCut Project walkthrough (using M+S+text keyring example)
* Package function, drawing, import file types
* Bed dimensions
* Paths, yellow dots, 'united' shapes
* Blue dot, Immediate mode
* Layers and colours
* Through cut, surface cut and engraving, speeds and strengths
* Various steps to build keyring design (shapes, text, uniting, layers, alignment, scaling, layers)
* Job ordering
* Saving
* Download as immediate, delete, download current

Laser Operation
* Lid
* Control panel, escape
* Moving head XY, indicator laser, datum
* Moving Z
* Focus
* Start position and test
* Start, pause and emergency stop function
* Do job, pause/open lid, restart

Laser Hazards
* Process and progression for normal operation failure (fire) - pause, open, move, CO2
* Process for abnormal operation failure (mechanical/jam) - emergency stop, open, move, CO2
* Ensure confident of process

Power Down
* Switch off laser
* Switch off filtration
* Clean any residue from the bed or bottom tray
* Close lid

== Individual Training Task ==

The individual task to get familiar, prompt questions and check understanding:

Task
* Make a personalised focus tool
* Square acrylic of appropriate size
* Member's name, "Focus Tool", keychain hole
* Should use full cut, surface cut, engrave
* Should demonstrate all steps, size, appropriate ordering, positioning

Steps
* Set individual to work, don't prompt but do answer questions (or pose if needed)
* Talk through design once done, question/check things etc
* Proceed to lasering (watch carefully all steps)
* Ask to stop job/restart, question escalation process

Assuming all ok:
* Get them to read the health and safety notes about operation and materials
* Add to the trained member list!

== Project Oversight ==

For next 2-3 projects, ensure member will find another more experienced trained user to support them (second pair of eyes)

Equipment/Laser Cutter/Training

2013-09-25T08:23:56Z

Tmonca: /* Trained Users */

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]] / Training

= Laser Cutter Training =

This page documents the process for being trained on the Laser Cutter, and the list of members who have completed that training.

== Summary ==

Training takes place in three main steps:
* Group Training of 1-4 members, going through the equipment and how to use it (~1hr)
* Individual Training Task, where an individual member is set a task to complete to prove and improve understanding (~30min each)
* Project Oversight, where more experienced users oversee the projects being undertaken when cutting (first 2-3 projects)

Training on the Laser Cutter is run by the Laser Cutter Owners. The Laser Cutter Owners are a group of people responsible for maintaining and training on the laser cutter, and hence have been trained to train, and trained to perform the weekly and monthly maintenance on the laser cutter.

== Booking ==

Sessions are advertised on '''http://meetup.makespace.org'''
* For discussing training, or requesting additional slots if needed, use the mailing list thread: [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/vNrS07zVuY0/discussion Training : Laser Cutter]

Notes:
* You can only be trained if you have your name allocated to a slot (groups will be restricted to four at a time, so please don't make up additional spaces)
* You must do the group and individual training on the same day

= Trained Users =

The following members of Makespace are owners of the laser cutter, so are trained to use and teach use of the Laser Cutter:
* Simon Ford
* David Barham
* Nick Johnson
* Toby Moncaster

The following members of Makespace are trained and qualified to use the Laser Cutter (note, they are not qualified to train others however):
* Steve Upton (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Martin de Selincourt (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Oliver Jackson (Simon Ford, 23/01/2013)
* Simon Stirley (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Stephen Woolhead (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Martin Levine (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Uwe Borowski (Simon Ford, 01/02/2013)
* Peter Sewell (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Steve Loughran (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* ST John (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Henry Gomersall (Simon Ford, 03/02/2013)
* Brian Corteil (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Wayne Keenan (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Andrew Dunn (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* David Knell (Simon Ford, 05/02/2013)
* Tom Oinn (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Amir Chaudhry (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Anil Madhavapeddy (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Edward Imhagwe (David Barham, 12/02/2013)
* Michael Dales (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Laura James (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Robert Copcutt (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Phil Cowans (Simon Ford, 2/03/2013)
* Errol McMullen (Simon Ford, 9/03/2013)
* Gaye Soykok (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Mark Williamson (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Joe Tapply (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Dan Ros (Simon Ford, 19/03/2013)
* Paul Osborn (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* David Esteves (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Zé Pinto Ferreira (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Sharath (Simon Ford, 27/03/2013)
* Andy Jude (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Mark Mellors (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Chris Abri (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Tom Ingham (Simon Ford, 5/04/2013)
* Adrian van den Heever (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Chris Voth (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Archie Reid (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Rachel Rayns (David Barham, 11/04/2013)
* Giovanni Orlando (David Barham, 15/04/2013)
* Chunhe Yu (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Marko Cosic (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Mark Watson (Nicholas Johnson, 04/04/2013)
* Andy Fisher (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* David Bebb (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Simon Haydn (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* Adrian Carr (Nicholas Johnson, 02/05/2013)
* John Clamp (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Maciek Piatek (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Antonio Barragan (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* John Sturdy (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Roeland Schumacher (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Mark Tillotson (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Ward Hills (Nicholas Johnson, 10/05/2013)
* Anne Harrison (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* William Morton (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Ali (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Rod Williams (Nicholas Johnson, 17/05/2013)
* Toby Moncaster (Simon Ford, 30/5/2013)
* Damien Guihen (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Ben Evan (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Jake Young (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Shareef Jalloq (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Renee Chow (David Barham, 08/06/2013)
* Dan Tidhar, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Mat Cook, (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Toby Roberts (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Jonathan Austin (David Barham, 24/6/2013)
* Stacy Smith (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Matt Harvey (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* Marcin (David Barham, 13/8/2013)
* James Waldmeyer (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Chris Wilson (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Kevin Maloney (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Harry Braviner (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Lee (David Barham, 18/9/2013)
* Jon Aas (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Armando Carlone (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Eckart Jack (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)
* Pop Sharma (Toby Moncaster, 24/9/2013)

= Training Cheatsheet =

The training structure and prompt sheet. Please note, this is used by the Laser Cutter Owners as a prompt to ensure training is executed in a consistent and complete fashion is included on this page; this does not constitute and is not a substitue for the training itself.

== Group Training ==

The group training introduction structure, suitable for 1-4 members at a time in a 1 hr session.

Introduction of main components
* Laser
* Cutting Mechanics
* Water Cooler System
* Filter
* PC
* Materials (what it can cut, supply)

Checks for everyone to do
* Check in use, looks ok
* Check water bath, temperature

Powering Up
* Turning on filter (Tick = ok, Warning = tell the owners, Cross = don't use it and tell the owners)
* Turning on Laser and warmup, what to do if doesn't power up
* Turning on PC and starting software

LaserCut Project walkthrough (using M+S+text keyring example)
* Package function, drawing, import file types
* Bed dimensions
* Paths, yellow dots, 'united' shapes
* Blue dot, Immediate mode
* Layers and colours
* Through cut, surface cut and engraving, speeds and strengths
* Various steps to build keyring design (shapes, text, uniting, layers, alignment, scaling, layers)
* Job ordering
* Saving
* Download as immediate, delete, download current

Laser Operation
* Lid
* Control panel, escape
* Moving head XY, indicator laser, datum
* Moving Z
* Focus
* Start position and test
* Start, pause and emergency stop function
* Do job, pause/open lid, restart

Laser Hazards
* Process and progression for normal operation failure (fire) - pause, open, move, CO2
* Process for abnormal operation failure (mechanical/jam) - emergency stop, open, move, CO2
* Ensure confident of process

Power Down
* Switch off laser
* Switch off filtration
* Clean any residue from the bed or bottom tray
* Close lid

== Individual Training Task ==

The individual task to get familiar, prompt questions and check understanding:

Task
* Make a personalised focus tool
* Square acrylic of appropriate size
* Member's name, "Focus Tool", keychain hole
* Should use full cut, surface cut, engrave
* Should demonstrate all steps, size, appropriate ordering, positioning

Steps
* Set individual to work, don't prompt but do answer questions (or pose if needed)
* Talk through design once done, question/check things etc
* Proceed to lasering (watch carefully all steps)
* Ask to stop job/restart, question escalation process

Assuming all ok:
* Get them to read the health and safety notes about operation and materials
* Add to the trained member list!

== Project Oversight ==

For next 2-3 projects, ensure member will find another more experienced trained user to support them (second pair of eyes)

Equipment

2013-09-23T18:39:02Z

Tmonca: /* The Workshop */

[[File:Laser-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
[[File:Makerbot-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
[[File:Roland-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
[[File:WP_20130509_005.jpg||thumb|320px|link=Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
[[File:Lathe-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
[[File:Powertools-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
[[File:Electronics-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
[[File:fine_metal_DSC_7694.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine metalwork Workbench]]
[[File:8633913103 92f52a697d c.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking bench]]
[[File:300xq.PNG|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]

The equipment you can find in Makespace.

== Using our Equipment ==

There is a large and growing variety of equipment and tools; some are safe to use, some can be dangerous or are expensive and need training before use. We have divided all the tools below into [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]]. Make sure you understand which class a tool is in before you attempt to use it, and read the associated wiki page.

[[The right tool for the job]] has some notes on what tools to use for various tasks.

Smaller equipment is listed on the [[Things and stuff]] page.

== The Workshop ==

* [[Equipment/BandSaw|BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
* [[Equipment/Drill_Presses|Drill Presses]]
* [[Equipment/Grinder|Grinder]]
* [[Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
* Metalwork Benches
*[[Equipment/MitreSawRage3Db|Mitre/Chop Saw]]
* [[Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline lathe|Sherline lathe]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline mill|Sherline mill]]
* Woodwork Benches

== The Space ==

* [[Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
* [[Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine Metalwork Bench]] and [[Equipment/Flexible_Shaft_Drill|Flexible Shaft Drill]]
* [[Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking kiln, torch and associated tools]]
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
* [[Equipment/PCB_Mill|PCB Mill]]
* [http://www.pattesters.co.uk/pat-testers/basic-pat-testers/seaward-primetest-100-pat-tester PrimeTest 100 PAT Tester]
* [[Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]
* [[Equipment/Vinyl_Cutter|Vinyl Cutter]]
* General Tools
** [http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/clarke-cht641-199-piece-diy-tool-kit-with-cant Clarke CHT641 199 Piece DIY Tool Kit With Cantilever Tool Box]

== Proposals and Notes ==

* [[Equipment/CNC_Metal_Mill|CNC Metal Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Hand_Tools|Hand Tools]]
* [[Equipment/PurchasedFromGrant]]
** [[Equipment/BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/Stained_Glass|Stained Glass]]

== Related ==
* Full equipment database [http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/ http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/].
* [[Infrastructure|Makespace Infrastructure]]
* [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]] - for safety and training requirements.
* [[Equipment/NewKit|New Kit]] - process for adding to our equipment inventory.
* [http://techtv.mit.edu/collections/ehs-videos/videos Introduction to Machine Shop Tools and Skills]

Equipment/Laser Cutter

2013-09-21T12:55:28Z

Tmonca: /* Summary */

{{RedTool}}

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / Laser Cutter

[[File:Makespace-laser-cutter.JPG|thumb|460px|right|Our LS6090 PRO Laser Cutter]]

= Summary =

This is our LS 6090 PRO Laser Cutter. It has a working area of 900mm by 600mm, and is powered by a 60w CO2 Water Cooled Laser Tube that can engrave and cut through materials such as wood, plastic, card, leather, fabrics, up to about 10-15mm thick (note, it can not cut metal). The laser cut is approximately 0.15mm wide, and a job can take a few seconds through to tens of minutes depending on material thickness and design complexity.

We have a dedicated PC running LaserCut 5.3 software to import, prepare and download jobs to the Laser Cutter. It can import various formats, with DXF being the most commonly used, so various software packages can be used to create your designs.

Here are some examples of laser jobs we've run (please add a photo of yours any time you do a job!)

<gallery>
File:Laser-cut-focus-tool.JPG
File:Laser-cut-front-panels.JPG
File:Laser-cut-lizards.JPG
File:Laser-cut-m-and-s.JPG
File:Laser-cut-model-building.JPG
File:Laser-cut-ply-m.JPG
File:Laser_output_-_makespace_arrow.JPG
File:Laser_box.jpg
File:Croc-small.jpg
File:LaserCutter_Jobs_1.jpg
File:LaserCutterGallery_20130328.jpg
File:LasercutSettlers.jpg
File:Wolfstock1.jpg
File:Mug-holder.jpg
</gallery>

= Using the Laser Cutter =

The laser cutter is a great way to easily produce accurate and complex 2D forms in various materials, and can be designed for with limited experience in various drawing or CAD applications. At the same time, it is an expensive tool with real risk of injury and fire, so is very important you know how to use it to avoid damaging yourself and the machine. '''You must only use the laser cutter if you have been trained, and if you are ever in any doubt about something, please ask for assistance.'''

== Owners ==

The Owners are those who have volunteered to be in charge of the equipment, organising maintenance, training others to use it, and generally being a point of contact. The current Owners of the Laser Cutter are:

* [[User:Simon|Simon Ford]]
* [[User:Barhamd|David Barham]]
* [[User:Nickcadsoftuk|Nick Johnson]]
* [[User:Tmonca|Toby Moncaster]]

If you have any questions, problems or concerns around the laser cutter, please use the mailing list thread:
* [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/Tmce2iKVzD8/discussion Log : Laser Cutter]

== Training ==

<div style="background:#FADADD; border:1px solid #FFC0CB; padding:5px">
<b>YOU CAN ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED</b><br>
and have been added to the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training#Trained_Users|Trained Users]] list by one of the Owners
</div>

To get trained on the laser cutter and be added to the qualified user list, you will need to arrange for a training session with one of the Laser Cutter Owners.

If you'd like to arrange training, please see:
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training|Laser Cutter Training]]

== Health and Safety ==

The laser cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must only be operated by members who have received appropriate training and who take due care. The top things to always remember when using the laser cutter are:
* '''ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU ARE ON THE LIST OF TRAINED USERS'''
* '''NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED'''
* '''KNOW WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT'''
* '''NEVER CUT MATERIALS THAT YOU DON'T KNOW ARE SAFE'''

As a trained user, you should be very aware of the following risks and how to deal with them:

'''FIRE (under normal operation)''' - Cutting at the wrong speed or the wrong power can result in the material igniting
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* Small flashes of flame that don't hang around for a fraction of a second are acceptable, but any more is rare and not acceptable
* If a fire does take, this is the process you should follow (from minor to major):
** Press "pause" (the same button you started the job with) - This will turn the laser off so no more heat enters, and assuming the flame goes out, you can press "start" for the job to continue where it left of
** Open the lid - With the job paused, you can open the lid to blow out the flame. Again, it is possible to re-close the lid and continue where you left off
** Move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics; alternatively send the laser to home/datum), and smother with a spare sheet of material or blow out
** Use the workshop CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FIRE (abnormal operation)''' - If the head gets stuck or something else goes wrong, ignition could happen much more suddenly or intensely
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* If the head gets trapped (e.g. tomb-stoning of a piece, mechanical failure) or any other problem occurs that causes or could cause fire, this is the process you should follow:
** Hit the emergency stop
** Open the lid and move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics)
** Blow out, smother with a spare sheet of material, or use the CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame as appropriate
* Ensure a Maintainer looks at the machine before it is brought back in to action if it is not obvious what went wrong and all is ok
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FUMES''' - The laser cutting process will release different smoke and fumes depending on the material.
* Never cut PVC or a material you are not sure is safe. When PVC is heated it releases chlorine gas, this mixes with the moisture in the air and the result is hydrochloric acid which is toxic to humans and corrosive to machines.
* Ensure the filter is on and the cutter lid stays closed for a while after a job to allow the fumes to clear.
* If you are feeling strange, think the fume build up is too much, or for any other reason you are unsure, stop the job.

'''TRAPPING''' - The head and bed of the cutter can be moved by the front panel menu or programs in the machines memory.
* Be careful when working inside the cutting area or with the lid open not to trap hands, hair, clothing or anything else.
* Always check the machine for unexpected items that may have fallen in before closing the lid.
* Do not attempt to climb into the machine!

'''LASER BURNS/LIGHT''' - A 60W laser can do real damage.
* The laser should be safe within the confines of the machine, and cut-off automatically when the lid is open (although this should not be relied upon). The top window is safe to look through during a job, but do not attempt to interfere with these windows or the laser or in any way invent some way to look at the laser.
* Do not tamper with the laser cutter, or any interlocks. All side panels of the laser should always be closed and locked whilst the machine is plugged in.
* Do not put metal in the laser cutter.

== Instructions ==

To use the laser cutter, you must have been trained and have had your name added to the trained user list; these instructions are not a substitute for this training. See the training section to understand how you can become qualified to use the laser cutter.

Although not a requirement, it is recommended someone else trained is also present when using the laser cutter. Having two pairs of eyes helps avoid forgotten steps, allows for double checking, clarifications and discussions, and ensures a greater pool of experience is both present and being built up as the laser is used.

'''Power Up'''

Give the machine a quick visual check. Make sure that there is nothing left on the bed, the water reservoir of the chiller looks normal, and that the equipment has no obvious damage or signs of being out-of-action. If the bed looks like it has residue on it, give it a wipe with IPA and a cloth.

Turn on primary switch on the trunking marked 'Laser'. The air filter system to the right of the laser cutter should start as should the air pump and the chiller. It should power up, make a decent amount of noise, and the lights should indicate the filter is in good condition (i.e. no need for replacement).

Make sure the lid is closed. Turn on the laser using the key on the right hand side. The inspection lamp should come on, a satisfying hum start up, and the cutter go into doing its self-checks.

Before doing any job, the laser should be left to warm up for 4-5 mins. While the machine warms up, power on the adjacent PC and start the LaserCut application from the desktop. During this time the water temperature shown on the chiller should drop from ambient temperature to the usual setting of 18C.

'''Load your Design'''

The PC software has an import facility which seems to be happy taking AutoCAD 2004 DXF files and other formats. The workspace of the laser bed is represented as the workarea in the LaserCut software. If the import doesn't do what you want size-wise, you can select the whole image and then use the 'size' command from the drop down menu to set the dimension you want. Clicking on the three dots ... symbol will adjust the other axis in the same proportion (keeping the aspect ratio fixed). Selecting the 'centre on bed' option will locate your imported drawing on the centre of the machine's cutting bed.

'''Assign Settings to Colours'''

Each part of your drawing that is assigned a different colour can have a different cut action assigned. Each colour will appear on the menu on the right hand side of the screen with numbers related to power and speed of the laser which will be used for the colour.

The main options are to Cut (line) or Engrave (raster fill). A marking on the material is a Cut. For each material and cutting depth required, a corresponding speed and power must be entered. The handbook provided with the machine gives suggested values for various materials but these should be considered as a starting point for a test. See the '''Power and Speed Settings''' section for our guidelines and experiences for these settings.

'''Download to the Cutter'''

Your drawing will feature a blue dot which represents the starting point of the laser; this is by default on the top right corner. In general, you will want to use "immediate" mode, which means this point represents wherever the laser is positioned when you start the job. You can also run the job in absolute mode by unchecking the box, making the job use absolute positioning on the workspace.

To download, select Download and Download Current; the download option will by default call the file on the laser cutter 'LASER'.

'''Set the Focus'''

Before each job, the focus needs to be checked and set by adjusting the height of the bed, and thus the work piece, from the lens. The critical dimension here is 41mm and several gauges made of perspex will be left around the machine. This gauge needs to be a fit between the top surface of the material you intend to cut and the white plastic 'flap' on the lens piece. The height of the table is adjusted using the UP and DOWN buttons. Failure to set the distance correctly will result in an out of focus laser and much bigger (but lower powered) cut line. Always ensure there is clearance between the material and laser head before the head moves.

'''Aligning and Testing the Job'''

The cutter's menu will show the most recent downloaded file highlighted. Pressing the 'test' button will make the head travel along the square maximum extends of the cuts. This shows you that you have the material in the right place, and you have enough of it! You can do this repeatedly, moving the work piece by hand or the laser head using the arrow keys (after hitting ESC), until you are confident you have things where you want them.

'''Cut the Job'''

When happy with the location of the material, close the lid and press 'start' to start the cutter. Watch the head and at least at first be prepared to press the 'stop' button immediately if you find you are burning massive holes in your work piece! This goes back to doing some tests on a sample of your material and making sure you are happy with the cut speeds and power you have selected. You should stay near the cutter at all times and be prepared to pause it or stop it in the event of fire.

<span style="color:red">'''DO NOT EVER LEAVE THE CUTTER UNATTENDED'''</span>

'''Finishing'''

The end of the job is signified by a beep. Waiting a few moments for the exhaust pump to clear any remaining smoke is a good idea, especially with wood, and will limit the build up of smells in the rest of the workshop. Remove your work piece, ensuring that all parts are cleared from the bed of the machine.

'''Power Down'''

The cutter is turned off using the key switch, then the air filtering system with the green rocker switch. Shut down the PC and double check that everything is left in a safe state for the next user.

'''Clean the bed of debris using the soft brush, then wipe down the bed using IPA and a cloth.'''

If you have been cutting particularly 'dirty' materials, most notable MDF and Ply which leave a sticky residue then you will need to use the course side of one of the oven pads and lots of 'elbow grease'. Residue on the bed can impact the next persons' job so please make the effort to clean up and leave the cutter as you would wish to find it.

Go away excited by what you can make and come back with lots more drawings!

== Power and Speed Settings ==

In due time we will try to build up a large sample stock of materials and record the values which work best. Here are the sample material tests we have so far:

<gallery>
File:Laser-schmoo-3mm-acrylic.JPG|3mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-10mm-acrylic.JPG|10mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-9mm-mdf.JPG|9mm MDF
</gallery>

== Tips & Tricks ==

* If the laser cutter's user interface does not seem to respond/do what you want, hit "ESC" to return to 'normal mode'.
* The opaque white acrylic needs slightly stronger settings for surface cuts as they are not as visible as in the transparent acrylic (i.e., for similar effect you need a deeper cut). Otherwise seems to cut equivalently to transparent acrylics.
* If you want a tight fit of pieces or very accurate sizing, keep in mind that the laser beam has a width of just over 0.1 mm (maybe 0.11 or 0.12 mm). So all exterior cut lines should be offset by 0.05 mm; you can do this very easily in the LaserCutter Software with the "Offset" tool (units are in mm, so enter '0.05' and select 'Outer').
* The DXF file format stores values only (not values and units). The internal units in the LaserCutter are in mm. If you set your document's units to mm in the exporting CAD system it should work fine, but generally it is a good idea to have a piece of geometry of known length, e.g. a line 100mm long, or a box of known size around your design. This makes adjusting the scaling a lot easier.
* If you want to export a DXF from Inkscape (which is a great, free vector drawing package), then make sure you do "Object to path" from the Path menu for the whole object and then during the export stage, enable "use ROBO-Master type of spline output". This should make sure all the curves and so on work.
* There's now a page to help with Inkscape and our laser at [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Inkscape]]
* If the jog buttons (arrow keys moving the laser head around) are only moving the head in small single steps rather than moving it continuously, make sure that the jog step size is set to 0.0mm in the Jog Settings section of the menu.

== Material Stock ==
If you have any requests for material stock, please add them the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Stock|Laser cutter stock]] page.

= Maintenance =

The maintenance of the Laser Cutter is carried out by the Owners, with some basic maintenance being carried out by Users on every job.

== Maintenance Schedule ==

Continuous Maintenance ('''Every job, done by all Laser Cutter Users''')
* Clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Clean any debris off laser bed and surround using soft brush

Basic Maintenance (Every week, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Clean the laser lens with IPA and cotton buds
* Oil the 3 runners with 3-in-one light oil
* Thoroughly clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Check the water level in the cooling tank
* Clean and remove debris from the machine base and catchment drawer

Full Maintenance (Every 4 weeks, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Check the water is clean in the cooling tank (i.e. no contamination/organic build up)
* Check filter unit for filter renewal
* Oil the 4 rise and fall lead screws with 3-in-one light oil
* Check mirrors and clean with a disposable sachet lens cleaner cloth (only if needed, mirror coatings are delicate)
* Work through mirror alignment procedure to check alignment of mirrors

== Maintenance Log ==

'''Reactive Maintenance'''
* 15th Jan 2013, Simon Ford: Laser cutter not powering up, with switching on via key gives no activity whatsoever. No recollection of it cutting out during a job (Alexis), so assume it just stopped turning on at some point. Filter box and power sockets confirmed OK. Diagnosis: RCD in right back panel of Laser reset to off, no obvious reason why. Switching back on brought everything back to life OK.
* 22nd, Simon Ford; 29th, Nicholas - same again.

'''Regular Maintenance'''
* Week Number, Date, Type, Owner (Notes)

2013
* January 7, Full, Chris @ HPCLaser'''
* January 14, Basic, Simon Ford
* January 21, Full, Simon Ford (running better than new :)'''
* ...various maintenance events happened...
* April 5th, Full, Simon Ford
* July 1st, Full, David Barham (realigned mirrors)
* July 15th, installed chiller

== Maintenance Shopping List ==

* 3-in-one light oil
* Cotton Buds
* Lens cleaner sachets
* Soft paint/cleaning brush
* Thermometer for water tank
* Hand held CO2 extinguisher

= Further Information =

* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser Product Page]
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=page&id=5&chapter=2 HPCLaser Technical Info]
* [http://www.laserscript.co.uk/phpBB3/ Laserscript Forum]

LaserCut 5.3
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/sale/35.html Homepage]
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/down/LaserCut5.3%20Manual%20V1.6.pdf Manual]

== Installation ==

<gallery>
File:Laser_-_van.JPG
File:Makespace-laser-install-02.JPG
File:Laser_-_building_2.JPG
File:Laser_-_building.JPG
</gallery>

== Purchase ==

Full Purchase, Delivery and Installation (£6865.00+vat = £8238.00)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser engraving and cutting machine, 600mm by 900mm 60W] (£5250.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=34 Laser Fume Filter] (£1250.00+vat)
* Delivery (£190+vat)
* Installation/Training (£175+vat)

== Repairs ==

We expect to have to change the following parts for general maintenance:
* The laser tube (guess every 6-12 months)
* The filter (guess every 3-6 months)
* The optics (guess every 6-12 months)

Maintenance and Spares:
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=3 60 watt C02 laser tube] (£275.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=12 50 mm Focus Meniscus Lens] (£75.00+vat)
* Estimate for Call Out (£200.00)

File:Mug-holder.jpg

2013-09-21T12:54:53Z

Tmonca: Laser cut stand for Aero-press coffee maker

Laser cut stand for Aero-press coffee maker

Equipment/Laser Cutter

2013-09-21T11:10:43Z

Tmonca: /* Owners */

{{RedTool}}

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / Laser Cutter

[[File:Makespace-laser-cutter.JPG|thumb|460px|right|Our LS6090 PRO Laser Cutter]]

= Summary =

This is our LS 6090 PRO Laser Cutter. It has a working area of 900mm by 600mm, and is powered by a 60w CO2 Water Cooled Laser Tube that can engrave and cut through materials such as wood, plastic, card, leather, fabrics, up to about 10-15mm thick (note, it can not cut metal). The laser cut is approximately 0.15mm wide, and a job can take a few seconds through to tens of minutes depending on material thickness and design complexity.

We have a dedicated PC running LaserCut 5.3 software to import, prepare and download jobs to the Laser Cutter. It can import various formats, with DXF being the most commonly used, so various software packages can be used to create your designs.

Here are some examples of laser jobs we've run (please add a photo of yours any time you do a job!)

<gallery>
File:Laser-cut-focus-tool.JPG
File:Laser-cut-front-panels.JPG
File:Laser-cut-lizards.JPG
File:Laser-cut-m-and-s.JPG
File:Laser-cut-model-building.JPG
File:Laser-cut-ply-m.JPG
File:Laser_output_-_makespace_arrow.JPG
File:Laser_box.jpg
File:Croc-small.jpg
File:LaserCutter_Jobs_1.jpg
File:LaserCutterGallery_20130328.jpg
File:LasercutSettlers.jpg
File:Wolfstock1.jpg
</gallery>

= Using the Laser Cutter =

The laser cutter is a great way to easily produce accurate and complex 2D forms in various materials, and can be designed for with limited experience in various drawing or CAD applications. At the same time, it is an expensive tool with real risk of injury and fire, so is very important you know how to use it to avoid damaging yourself and the machine. '''You must only use the laser cutter if you have been trained, and if you are ever in any doubt about something, please ask for assistance.'''

== Owners ==

The Owners are those who have volunteered to be in charge of the equipment, organising maintenance, training others to use it, and generally being a point of contact. The current Owners of the Laser Cutter are:

* [[User:Simon|Simon Ford]]
* [[User:Barhamd|David Barham]]
* [[User:Nickcadsoftuk|Nick Johnson]]
* [[User:Tmonca|Toby Moncaster]]

If you have any questions, problems or concerns around the laser cutter, please use the mailing list thread:
* [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/Tmce2iKVzD8/discussion Log : Laser Cutter]

== Training ==

<div style="background:#FADADD; border:1px solid #FFC0CB; padding:5px">
<b>YOU CAN ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED</b><br>
and have been added to the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training#Trained_Users|Trained Users]] list by one of the Owners
</div>

To get trained on the laser cutter and be added to the qualified user list, you will need to arrange for a training session with one of the Laser Cutter Owners.

If you'd like to arrange training, please see:
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training|Laser Cutter Training]]

== Health and Safety ==

The laser cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must only be operated by members who have received appropriate training and who take due care. The top things to always remember when using the laser cutter are:
* '''ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU ARE ON THE LIST OF TRAINED USERS'''
* '''NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED'''
* '''KNOW WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT'''
* '''NEVER CUT MATERIALS THAT YOU DON'T KNOW ARE SAFE'''

As a trained user, you should be very aware of the following risks and how to deal with them:

'''FIRE (under normal operation)''' - Cutting at the wrong speed or the wrong power can result in the material igniting
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* Small flashes of flame that don't hang around for a fraction of a second are acceptable, but any more is rare and not acceptable
* If a fire does take, this is the process you should follow (from minor to major):
** Press "pause" (the same button you started the job with) - This will turn the laser off so no more heat enters, and assuming the flame goes out, you can press "start" for the job to continue where it left of
** Open the lid - With the job paused, you can open the lid to blow out the flame. Again, it is possible to re-close the lid and continue where you left off
** Move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics; alternatively send the laser to home/datum), and smother with a spare sheet of material or blow out
** Use the workshop CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FIRE (abnormal operation)''' - If the head gets stuck or something else goes wrong, ignition could happen much more suddenly or intensely
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* If the head gets trapped (e.g. tomb-stoning of a piece, mechanical failure) or any other problem occurs that causes or could cause fire, this is the process you should follow:
** Hit the emergency stop
** Open the lid and move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics)
** Blow out, smother with a spare sheet of material, or use the CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame as appropriate
* Ensure a Maintainer looks at the machine before it is brought back in to action if it is not obvious what went wrong and all is ok
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FUMES''' - The laser cutting process will release different smoke and fumes depending on the material.
* Never cut PVC or a material you are not sure is safe. When PVC is heated it releases chlorine gas, this mixes with the moisture in the air and the result is hydrochloric acid which is toxic to humans and corrosive to machines.
* Ensure the filter is on and the cutter lid stays closed for a while after a job to allow the fumes to clear.
* If you are feeling strange, think the fume build up is too much, or for any other reason you are unsure, stop the job.

'''TRAPPING''' - The head and bed of the cutter can be moved by the front panel menu or programs in the machines memory.
* Be careful when working inside the cutting area or with the lid open not to trap hands, hair, clothing or anything else.
* Always check the machine for unexpected items that may have fallen in before closing the lid.
* Do not attempt to climb into the machine!

'''LASER BURNS/LIGHT''' - A 60W laser can do real damage.
* The laser should be safe within the confines of the machine, and cut-off automatically when the lid is open (although this should not be relied upon). The top window is safe to look through during a job, but do not attempt to interfere with these windows or the laser or in any way invent some way to look at the laser.
* Do not tamper with the laser cutter, or any interlocks. All side panels of the laser should always be closed and locked whilst the machine is plugged in.
* Do not put metal in the laser cutter.

== Instructions ==

To use the laser cutter, you must have been trained and have had your name added to the trained user list; these instructions are not a substitute for this training. See the training section to understand how you can become qualified to use the laser cutter.

Although not a requirement, it is recommended someone else trained is also present when using the laser cutter. Having two pairs of eyes helps avoid forgotten steps, allows for double checking, clarifications and discussions, and ensures a greater pool of experience is both present and being built up as the laser is used.

'''Power Up'''

Give the machine a quick visual check. Make sure that there is nothing left on the bed, the water reservoir of the chiller looks normal, and that the equipment has no obvious damage or signs of being out-of-action. If the bed looks like it has residue on it, give it a wipe with IPA and a cloth.

Turn on primary switch on the trunking marked 'Laser'. The air filter system to the right of the laser cutter should start as should the air pump and the chiller. It should power up, make a decent amount of noise, and the lights should indicate the filter is in good condition (i.e. no need for replacement).

Make sure the lid is closed. Turn on the laser using the key on the right hand side. The inspection lamp should come on, a satisfying hum start up, and the cutter go into doing its self-checks.

Before doing any job, the laser should be left to warm up for 4-5 mins. While the machine warms up, power on the adjacent PC and start the LaserCut application from the desktop. During this time the water temperature shown on the chiller should drop from ambient temperature to the usual setting of 18C.

'''Load your Design'''

The PC software has an import facility which seems to be happy taking AutoCAD 2004 DXF files and other formats. The workspace of the laser bed is represented as the workarea in the LaserCut software. If the import doesn't do what you want size-wise, you can select the whole image and then use the 'size' command from the drop down menu to set the dimension you want. Clicking on the three dots ... symbol will adjust the other axis in the same proportion (keeping the aspect ratio fixed). Selecting the 'centre on bed' option will locate your imported drawing on the centre of the machine's cutting bed.

'''Assign Settings to Colours'''

Each part of your drawing that is assigned a different colour can have a different cut action assigned. Each colour will appear on the menu on the right hand side of the screen with numbers related to power and speed of the laser which will be used for the colour.

The main options are to Cut (line) or Engrave (raster fill). A marking on the material is a Cut. For each material and cutting depth required, a corresponding speed and power must be entered. The handbook provided with the machine gives suggested values for various materials but these should be considered as a starting point for a test. See the '''Power and Speed Settings''' section for our guidelines and experiences for these settings.

'''Download to the Cutter'''

Your drawing will feature a blue dot which represents the starting point of the laser; this is by default on the top right corner. In general, you will want to use "immediate" mode, which means this point represents wherever the laser is positioned when you start the job. You can also run the job in absolute mode by unchecking the box, making the job use absolute positioning on the workspace.

To download, select Download and Download Current; the download option will by default call the file on the laser cutter 'LASER'.

'''Set the Focus'''

Before each job, the focus needs to be checked and set by adjusting the height of the bed, and thus the work piece, from the lens. The critical dimension here is 41mm and several gauges made of perspex will be left around the machine. This gauge needs to be a fit between the top surface of the material you intend to cut and the white plastic 'flap' on the lens piece. The height of the table is adjusted using the UP and DOWN buttons. Failure to set the distance correctly will result in an out of focus laser and much bigger (but lower powered) cut line. Always ensure there is clearance between the material and laser head before the head moves.

'''Aligning and Testing the Job'''

The cutter's menu will show the most recent downloaded file highlighted. Pressing the 'test' button will make the head travel along the square maximum extends of the cuts. This shows you that you have the material in the right place, and you have enough of it! You can do this repeatedly, moving the work piece by hand or the laser head using the arrow keys (after hitting ESC), until you are confident you have things where you want them.

'''Cut the Job'''

When happy with the location of the material, close the lid and press 'start' to start the cutter. Watch the head and at least at first be prepared to press the 'stop' button immediately if you find you are burning massive holes in your work piece! This goes back to doing some tests on a sample of your material and making sure you are happy with the cut speeds and power you have selected. You should stay near the cutter at all times and be prepared to pause it or stop it in the event of fire.

<span style="color:red">'''DO NOT EVER LEAVE THE CUTTER UNATTENDED'''</span>

'''Finishing'''

The end of the job is signified by a beep. Waiting a few moments for the exhaust pump to clear any remaining smoke is a good idea, especially with wood, and will limit the build up of smells in the rest of the workshop. Remove your work piece, ensuring that all parts are cleared from the bed of the machine.

'''Power Down'''

The cutter is turned off using the key switch, then the air filtering system with the green rocker switch. Shut down the PC and double check that everything is left in a safe state for the next user.

'''Clean the bed of debris using the soft brush, then wipe down the bed using IPA and a cloth.'''

If you have been cutting particularly 'dirty' materials, most notable MDF and Ply which leave a sticky residue then you will need to use the course side of one of the oven pads and lots of 'elbow grease'. Residue on the bed can impact the next persons' job so please make the effort to clean up and leave the cutter as you would wish to find it.

Go away excited by what you can make and come back with lots more drawings!

== Power and Speed Settings ==

In due time we will try to build up a large sample stock of materials and record the values which work best. Here are the sample material tests we have so far:

<gallery>
File:Laser-schmoo-3mm-acrylic.JPG|3mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-10mm-acrylic.JPG|10mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-9mm-mdf.JPG|9mm MDF
</gallery>

== Tips & Tricks ==

* If the laser cutter's user interface does not seem to respond/do what you want, hit "ESC" to return to 'normal mode'.
* The opaque white acrylic needs slightly stronger settings for surface cuts as they are not as visible as in the transparent acrylic (i.e., for similar effect you need a deeper cut). Otherwise seems to cut equivalently to transparent acrylics.
* If you want a tight fit of pieces or very accurate sizing, keep in mind that the laser beam has a width of just over 0.1 mm (maybe 0.11 or 0.12 mm). So all exterior cut lines should be offset by 0.05 mm; you can do this very easily in the LaserCutter Software with the "Offset" tool (units are in mm, so enter '0.05' and select 'Outer').
* The DXF file format stores values only (not values and units). The internal units in the LaserCutter are in mm. If you set your document's units to mm in the exporting CAD system it should work fine, but generally it is a good idea to have a piece of geometry of known length, e.g. a line 100mm long, or a box of known size around your design. This makes adjusting the scaling a lot easier.
* If you want to export a DXF from Inkscape (which is a great, free vector drawing package), then make sure you do "Object to path" from the Path menu for the whole object and then during the export stage, enable "use ROBO-Master type of spline output". This should make sure all the curves and so on work.
* There's now a page to help with Inkscape and our laser at [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Inkscape]]
* If the jog buttons (arrow keys moving the laser head around) are only moving the head in small single steps rather than moving it continuously, make sure that the jog step size is set to 0.0mm in the Jog Settings section of the menu.

== Material Stock ==
If you have any requests for material stock, please add them the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Stock|Laser cutter stock]] page.

= Maintenance =

The maintenance of the Laser Cutter is carried out by the Owners, with some basic maintenance being carried out by Users on every job.

== Maintenance Schedule ==

Continuous Maintenance ('''Every job, done by all Laser Cutter Users''')
* Clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Clean any debris off laser bed and surround using soft brush

Basic Maintenance (Every week, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Clean the laser lens with IPA and cotton buds
* Oil the 3 runners with 3-in-one light oil
* Thoroughly clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Check the water level in the cooling tank
* Clean and remove debris from the machine base and catchment drawer

Full Maintenance (Every 4 weeks, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Check the water is clean in the cooling tank (i.e. no contamination/organic build up)
* Check filter unit for filter renewal
* Oil the 4 rise and fall lead screws with 3-in-one light oil
* Check mirrors and clean with a disposable sachet lens cleaner cloth (only if needed, mirror coatings are delicate)
* Work through mirror alignment procedure to check alignment of mirrors

== Maintenance Log ==

'''Reactive Maintenance'''
* 15th Jan 2013, Simon Ford: Laser cutter not powering up, with switching on via key gives no activity whatsoever. No recollection of it cutting out during a job (Alexis), so assume it just stopped turning on at some point. Filter box and power sockets confirmed OK. Diagnosis: RCD in right back panel of Laser reset to off, no obvious reason why. Switching back on brought everything back to life OK.
* 22nd, Simon Ford; 29th, Nicholas - same again.

'''Regular Maintenance'''
* Week Number, Date, Type, Owner (Notes)

2013
* January 7, Full, Chris @ HPCLaser'''
* January 14, Basic, Simon Ford
* January 21, Full, Simon Ford (running better than new :)'''
* ...various maintenance events happened...
* April 5th, Full, Simon Ford
* July 1st, Full, David Barham (realigned mirrors)
* July 15th, installed chiller

== Maintenance Shopping List ==

* 3-in-one light oil
* Cotton Buds
* Lens cleaner sachets
* Soft paint/cleaning brush
* Thermometer for water tank
* Hand held CO2 extinguisher

= Further Information =

* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser Product Page]
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=page&id=5&chapter=2 HPCLaser Technical Info]
* [http://www.laserscript.co.uk/phpBB3/ Laserscript Forum]

LaserCut 5.3
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/sale/35.html Homepage]
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/down/LaserCut5.3%20Manual%20V1.6.pdf Manual]

== Installation ==

<gallery>
File:Laser_-_van.JPG
File:Makespace-laser-install-02.JPG
File:Laser_-_building_2.JPG
File:Laser_-_building.JPG
</gallery>

== Purchase ==

Full Purchase, Delivery and Installation (£6865.00+vat = £8238.00)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser engraving and cutting machine, 600mm by 900mm 60W] (£5250.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=34 Laser Fume Filter] (£1250.00+vat)
* Delivery (£190+vat)
* Installation/Training (£175+vat)

== Repairs ==

We expect to have to change the following parts for general maintenance:
* The laser tube (guess every 6-12 months)
* The filter (guess every 3-6 months)
* The optics (guess every 6-12 months)

Maintenance and Spares:
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=3 60 watt C02 laser tube] (£275.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=12 50 mm Focus Meniscus Lens] (£75.00+vat)
* Estimate for Call Out (£200.00)

User:Tmonca

2013-09-21T11:10:37Z

Tmonca: Created page with "My name's Toby (@tobym on the mailing list). I'm a PhD student at the Computer Laboratory focussing on data centre networking and storage systems. File:Tmonca(1).jpg I've a..."

My name's Toby (@tobym on the mailing list). I'm a PhD student at the Computer Laboratory focussing on data centre networking and storage systems.

[[File:Tmonca(1).jpg]]

I've always been keen on tinkering with things and DIY and miss these as a student in college accommodation, so Makespace fills a nice gap :)

Currently I'm treasurer of Makersoc (the student makespace society) and am keen to get involved in lots more stuff in Makespace.

File:Tmonca(1).jpg

2013-09-21T11:09:58Z

Tmonca:

Equipment/Laser Cutter

2013-09-09T13:35:23Z

Tmonca: /* Summary */

{{RedTool}}

[[Equipment|Equipment]] / Laser Cutter

[[File:Makespace-laser-cutter.JPG|thumb|460px|right|Our LS6090 PRO Laser Cutter]]

= Summary =

This is our LS 6090 PRO Laser Cutter. It has a working area of 900mm by 600mm, and is powered by a 60w CO2 Water Cooled Laser Tube that can engrave and cut through materials such as wood, plastic, card, leather, fabrics, up to about 10-15mm thick (note, it can not cut metal). The laser cut is approximately 0.15mm wide, and a job can take a few seconds through to tens of minutes depending on material thickness and design complexity.

We have a dedicated PC running LaserCut 5.3 software to import, prepare and download jobs to the Laser Cutter. It can import various formats, with DXF being the most commonly used, so various software packages can be used to create your designs.

Here are some examples of laser jobs we've run (please add a photo of yours any time you do a job!)

<gallery>
File:Laser-cut-focus-tool.JPG
File:Laser-cut-front-panels.JPG
File:Laser-cut-lizards.JPG
File:Laser-cut-m-and-s.JPG
File:Laser-cut-model-building.JPG
File:Laser-cut-ply-m.JPG
File:Laser_output_-_makespace_arrow.JPG
File:Laser_box.jpg
File:Croc-small.jpg
File:LaserCutter_Jobs_1.jpg
File:LaserCutterGallery_20130328.jpg
File:LasercutSettlers.jpg
File:Wolfstock1.jpg
</gallery>

= Using the Laser Cutter =

The laser cutter is a great way to easily produce accurate and complex 2D forms in various materials, and can be designed for with limited experience in various drawing or CAD applications. At the same time, it is an expensive tool with real risk of injury and fire, so is very important you know how to use it to avoid damaging yourself and the machine. '''You must only use the laser cutter if you have been trained, and if you are ever in any doubt about something, please ask for assistance.'''

== Owners ==

The Owners are those who have volunteered to be in charge of the equipment, organising maintenance, training others to use it, and generally being a point of contact. The current Owners of the Laser Cutter are:

* [[User:Simon|Simon Ford]]
* [[User:Barhamd|David Barham]]
* [[User:Nickcadsoftuk|Nick Johnson]]

If you have any questions, problems or concerns around the laser cutter, please use the mailing list thread:
* [https://groups.google.com/d/topic/cammakespace/Tmce2iKVzD8/discussion Log : Laser Cutter]

== Training ==

<div style="background:#FADADD; border:1px solid #FFC0CB; padding:5px">
<b>YOU CAN ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED</b><br>
and have been added to the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training#Trained_Users|Trained Users]] list by one of the Owners
</div>

To get trained on the laser cutter and be added to the qualified user list, you will need to arrange for a training session with one of the Laser Cutter Owners.

If you'd like to arrange training, please see:
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter/Training|Laser Cutter Training]]

== Health and Safety ==

The laser cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must only be operated by members who have received appropriate training and who take due care. The top things to always remember when using the laser cutter are:
* '''ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU ARE ON THE LIST OF TRAINED USERS'''
* '''NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED'''
* '''KNOW WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT'''
* '''NEVER CUT MATERIALS THAT YOU DON'T KNOW ARE SAFE'''

As a trained user, you should be very aware of the following risks and how to deal with them:

'''FIRE (under normal operation)''' - Cutting at the wrong speed or the wrong power can result in the material igniting
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* Small flashes of flame that don't hang around for a fraction of a second are acceptable, but any more is rare and not acceptable
* If a fire does take, this is the process you should follow (from minor to major):
** Press "pause" (the same button you started the job with) - This will turn the laser off so no more heat enters, and assuming the flame goes out, you can press "start" for the job to continue where it left of
** Open the lid - With the job paused, you can open the lid to blow out the flame. Again, it is possible to re-close the lid and continue where you left off
** Move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics; alternatively send the laser to home/datum), and smother with a spare sheet of material or blow out
** Use the workshop CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FIRE (abnormal operation)''' - If the head gets stuck or something else goes wrong, ignition could happen much more suddenly or intensely
* You must watch the cutter at all times and be prepared to abort the job if problems occur
* If the head gets trapped (e.g. tomb-stoning of a piece, mechanical failure) or any other problem occurs that causes or could cause fire, this is the process you should follow:
** Hit the emergency stop
** Open the lid and move the material from under the laser head assuming safe to do so (so it doesn't damage the optics)
** Blow out, smother with a spare sheet of material, or use the CO2 extinguisher to extinguish the flame as appropriate
* Ensure a Maintainer looks at the machine before it is brought back in to action if it is not obvious what went wrong and all is ok
* You should also make a note in the log if any of this happens with associated materials and settings so we can keep track of any particular materials/settings we should look at

'''FUMES''' - The laser cutting process will release different smoke and fumes depending on the material.
* Never cut PVC or a material you are not sure is safe. When PVC is heated it releases chlorine gas, this mixes with the moisture in the air and the result is hydrochloric acid which is toxic to humans and corrosive to machines.
* Ensure the filter is on and the cutter lid stays closed for a while after a job to allow the fumes to clear.
* If you are feeling strange, think the fume build up is too much, or for any other reason you are unsure, stop the job.

'''TRAPPING''' - The head and bed of the cutter can be moved by the front panel menu or programs in the machines memory.
* Be careful when working inside the cutting area or with the lid open not to trap hands, hair, clothing or anything else.
* Always check the machine for unexpected items that may have fallen in before closing the lid.
* Do not attempt to climb into the machine!

'''LASER BURNS/LIGHT''' - A 60W laser can do real damage.
* The laser should be safe within the confines of the machine, and cut-off automatically when the lid is open (although this should not be relied upon). The top window is safe to look through during a job, but do not attempt to interfere with these windows or the laser or in any way invent some way to look at the laser.
* Do not tamper with the laser cutter, or any interlocks. All side panels of the laser should always be closed and locked whilst the machine is plugged in.
* Do not put metal in the laser cutter.

== Instructions ==

To use the laser cutter, you must have been trained and have had your name added to the trained user list; these instructions are not a substitute for this training. See the training section to understand how you can become qualified to use the laser cutter.

Although not a requirement, it is recommended someone else trained is also present when using the laser cutter. Having two pairs of eyes helps avoid forgotten steps, allows for double checking, clarifications and discussions, and ensures a greater pool of experience is both present and being built up as the laser is used.

'''Power Up'''

Give the machine a quick visual check. Make sure that there is nothing left on the bed, the water reservoir of the chiller looks normal, and that the equipment has no obvious damage or signs of being out-of-action. If the bed looks like it has residue on it, give it a wipe with IPA and a cloth.

Turn on primary switch on the trunking marked 'Laser'. The air filter system to the right of the laser cutter should start as should the air pump and the chiller. It should power up, make a decent amount of noise, and the lights should indicate the filter is in good condition (i.e. no need for replacement).

Make sure the lid is closed. Turn on the laser using the key on the right hand side. The inspection lamp should come on, a satisfying hum start up, and the cutter go into doing its self-checks.

Before doing any job, the laser should be left to warm up for 4-5 mins. While the machine warms up, power on the adjacent PC and start the LaserCut application from the desktop. During this time the water temperature shown on the chiller should drop from ambient temperature to the usual setting of 18C.

'''Load your Design'''

The PC software has an import facility which seems to be happy taking AutoCAD 2004 DXF files and other formats. The workspace of the laser bed is represented as the workarea in the LaserCut software. If the import doesn't do what you want size-wise, you can select the whole image and then use the 'size' command from the drop down menu to set the dimension you want. Clicking on the three dots ... symbol will adjust the other axis in the same proportion (keeping the aspect ratio fixed). Selecting the 'centre on bed' option will locate your imported drawing on the centre of the machine's cutting bed.

'''Assign Settings to Colours'''

Each part of your drawing that is assigned a different colour can have a different cut action assigned. Each colour will appear on the menu on the right hand side of the screen with numbers related to power and speed of the laser which will be used for the colour.

The main options are to Cut (line) or Engrave (raster fill). A marking on the material is a Cut. For each material and cutting depth required, a corresponding speed and power must be entered. The handbook provided with the machine gives suggested values for various materials but these should be considered as a starting point for a test. See the '''Power and Speed Settings''' section for our guidelines and experiences for these settings.

'''Download to the Cutter'''

Your drawing will feature a blue dot which represents the starting point of the laser; this is by default on the top right corner. In general, you will want to use "immediate" mode, which means this point represents wherever the laser is positioned when you start the job. You can also run the job in absolute mode by unchecking the box, making the job use absolute positioning on the workspace.

To download, select Download and Download Current; the download option will by default call the file on the laser cutter 'LASER'.

'''Set the Focus'''

Before each job, the focus needs to be checked and set by adjusting the height of the bed, and thus the work piece, from the lens. The critical dimension here is 41mm and several gauges made of perspex will be left around the machine. This gauge needs to be a fit between the top surface of the material you intend to cut and the white plastic 'flap' on the lens piece. The height of the table is adjusted using the UP and DOWN buttons. Failure to set the distance correctly will result in an out of focus laser and much bigger (but lower powered) cut line. Always ensure there is clearance between the material and laser head before the head moves.

'''Aligning and Testing the Job'''

The cutter's menu will show the most recent downloaded file highlighted. Pressing the 'test' button will make the head travel along the square maximum extends of the cuts. This shows you that you have the material in the right place, and you have enough of it! You can do this repeatedly, moving the work piece by hand or the laser head using the arrow keys (after hitting ESC), until you are confident you have things where you want them.

'''Cut the Job'''

When happy with the location of the material, close the lid and press 'start' to start the cutter. Watch the head and at least at first be prepared to press the 'stop' button immediately if you find you are burning massive holes in your work piece! This goes back to doing some tests on a sample of your material and making sure you are happy with the cut speeds and power you have selected. You should stay near the cutter at all times and be prepared to pause it or stop it in the event of fire.

<span style="color:red">'''DO NOT EVER LEAVE THE CUTTER UNATTENDED'''</span>

'''Finishing'''

The end of the job is signified by a beep. Waiting a few moments for the exhaust pump to clear any remaining smoke is a good idea, especially with wood, and will limit the build up of smells in the rest of the workshop. Remove your work piece, ensuring that all parts are cleared from the bed of the machine.

'''Power Down'''

The cutter is turned off using the key switch, then the air filtering system with the green rocker switch. Shut down the PC and double check that everything is left in a safe state for the next user.

'''Clean the bed of debris using the soft brush, then wipe down the bed using IPA and a cloth.'''

If you have been cutting particularly 'dirty' materials, most notable MDF and Ply which leave a sticky residue then you will need to use the course side of one of the oven pads and lots of 'elbow grease'. Residue on the bed can impact the next persons' job so please make the effort to clean up and leave the cutter as you would wish to find it.

Go away excited by what you can make and come back with lots more drawings!

== Power and Speed Settings ==

In due time we will try to build up a large sample stock of materials and record the values which work best. Here are the sample material tests we have so far:

<gallery>
File:Laser-schmoo-3mm-acrylic.JPG|3mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-10mm-acrylic.JPG|10mm Acrylic
File:Laser-schmoo-9mm-mdf.JPG|9mm MDF
</gallery>

== Tips & Tricks ==

* If the laser cutter's user interface does not seem to respond/do what you want, hit "ESC" to return to 'normal mode'.
* The opaque white acrylic needs slightly stronger settings for surface cuts as they are not as visible as in the transparent acrylic (i.e., for similar effect you need a deeper cut). Otherwise seems to cut equivalently to transparent acrylics.
* If you want a tight fit of pieces or very accurate sizing, keep in mind that the laser beam has a width of just over 0.1 mm (maybe 0.11 or 0.12 mm). So all exterior cut lines should be offset by 0.05 mm; you can do this very easily in the LaserCutter Software with the "Offset" tool (units are in mm, so enter '0.05' and select 'Outer').
* The DXF file format stores values only (not values and units). The internal units in the LaserCutter are in mm. If you set your document's units to mm in the exporting CAD system it should work fine, but generally it is a good idea to have a piece of geometry of known length, e.g. a line 100mm long, or a box of known size around your design. This makes adjusting the scaling a lot easier.
* If you want to export a DXF from Inkscape (which is a great, free vector drawing package), then make sure you do "Object to path" from the Path menu for the whole object and then during the export stage, enable "use ROBO-Master type of spline output". This should make sure all the curves and so on work.
* There's now a page to help with Inkscape and our laser at [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Inkscape]]
* If the jog buttons (arrow keys moving the laser head around) are only moving the head in small single steps rather than moving it continuously, make sure that the jog step size is set to 0.0mm in the Jog Settings section of the menu.

== Material Stock ==
If you have any requests for material stock, please add them the [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter_Stock|Laser cutter stock]] page.

= Maintenance =

The maintenance of the Laser Cutter is carried out by the Owners, with some basic maintenance being carried out by Users on every job.

== Maintenance Schedule ==

Continuous Maintenance ('''Every job, done by all Laser Cutter Users''')
* Clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Clean any debris off laser bed and surround using soft brush

Basic Maintenance (Every week, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Clean the laser lens with IPA and cotton buds
* Oil the 3 runners with 3-in-one light oil
* Thoroughly clean the laser bed with IPA and cloth
* Check the water level in the cooling tank
* Clean and remove debris from the machine base and catchment drawer

Full Maintenance (Every 4 weeks, done by Laser Cutter Maintainers)
* Check the water is clean in the cooling tank (i.e. no contamination/organic build up)
* Check filter unit for filter renewal
* Oil the 4 rise and fall lead screws with 3-in-one light oil
* Check mirrors and clean with a disposable sachet lens cleaner cloth (only if needed, mirror coatings are delicate)
* Work through mirror alignment procedure to check alignment of mirrors

== Maintenance Log ==

'''Reactive Maintenance'''
* 15th Jan 2013, Simon Ford: Laser cutter not powering up, with switching on via key gives no activity whatsoever. No recollection of it cutting out during a job (Alexis), so assume it just stopped turning on at some point. Filter box and power sockets confirmed OK. Diagnosis: RCD in right back panel of Laser reset to off, no obvious reason why. Switching back on brought everything back to life OK.
* 22nd, Simon Ford; 29th, Nicholas - same again.

'''Regular Maintenance'''
* Week Number, Date, Type, Owner (Notes)

2013
* January 7, Full, Chris @ HPCLaser'''
* January 14, Basic, Simon Ford
* January 21, Full, Simon Ford (running better than new :)'''
* ...various maintenance events happened...
* April 5th, Full, Simon Ford
* July 1st, Full, David Barham (realigned mirrors)
* July 15th, installed chiller

== Maintenance Shopping List ==

* 3-in-one light oil
* Cotton Buds
* Lens cleaner sachets
* Soft paint/cleaning brush
* Thermometer for water tank
* Hand held CO2 extinguisher

= Further Information =

* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser Product Page]
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=page&id=5&chapter=2 HPCLaser Technical Info]
* [http://www.laserscript.co.uk/phpBB3/ Laserscript Forum]

LaserCut 5.3
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/sale/35.html Homepage]
* [http://www.leetro.com/english/down/LaserCut5.3%20Manual%20V1.6.pdf Manual]

== Installation ==

<gallery>
File:Laser_-_van.JPG
File:Makespace-laser-install-02.JPG
File:Laser_-_building_2.JPG
File:Laser_-_building.JPG
</gallery>

== Purchase ==

Full Purchase, Delivery and Installation (£6865.00+vat = £8238.00)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=11 LS 6090 PRO Laser engraving and cutting machine, 600mm by 900mm 60W] (£5250.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=34 Laser Fume Filter] (£1250.00+vat)
* Delivery (£190+vat)
* Installation/Training (£175+vat)

== Repairs ==

We expect to have to change the following parts for general maintenance:
* The laser tube (guess every 6-12 months)
* The filter (guess every 3-6 months)
* The optics (guess every 6-12 months)

Maintenance and Spares:
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=3 60 watt C02 laser tube] (£275.00+vat)
* [http://hpclaser.co.uk/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=2&products_id=12 50 mm Focus Meniscus Lens] (£75.00+vat)
* Estimate for Call Out (£200.00)

File:Wolfstock1.jpg

2013-09-09T13:34:50Z

Tmonca: Laser cut sign for Wolfson June Event

Laser cut sign for Wolfson June Event

Equipment/Stained Glass

2013-08-20T14:59:33Z

Tmonca: Created page with "There are 2 types of stained glass. Lead work uses lead came to hold the pieces of glass in place It is the traditional method used for church windows, etc. Copper foil work crea..."

There are 2 types of stained glass. Lead work uses lead came to hold the pieces of glass in place It is the traditional method used for church windows, etc. Copper foil work creates finer pieces of glass and allows the creation of 3D shapes. This produces things like Tiffany lamp shades.

== Tools ==

'''Tools for Glass Cutting/shaping'''
* Glass cutters (ideally at least one of each)
** Pencil cutters - £15 each
** Pistol cutter - £20 each
** Lubricant oil - about £1 per bottle
* Glass cutting square - £7
* Cut running pliers (straight) - about £5
* Cut running pliers (curve) - about £20
* Grozers (normal) - £6
* Grozers (Narrow) - £8

'''Tools for soldering/assembly'''
* 100w temp controlled soldering iron + stand - £90
* lead cutter - £8
* Lead vice - £8
* Lead pulling pliers - £8
* horseshoe nails - ~£2 for 20
* Layout boards - can make our own (piece of chipboard a bit bigger than design with 2 wood battens at 90degrees)
* pattern shears for lead work - £8
* pattern shears for foil work - £8
* Fid - £2
* Hand crimper - £6

'''TOTAL for 1 ''complete'' set of tools tools ~£220 + VAT
'PLUS we'd want to buy a glass grinder (essential for adjusting pieces of glass that aren't quite perfect) - £120 + VAT'''

As an alternative, there are "starter" kits available that come with ''most'' of the tools (though not quite all). E.g.

[http://www.creativeglassguild.co.uk/prod/deluxe-leading-and-foiling-kit-with-weller-100w-soldering-iron| Creative glass]
[http://www.tempsfordstainedglass.co.uk/acatalog/Starter_kits.html| Tempsford glass]

== Supplies ==

'''General supplies'''
* Tallow flux (for lead work) - £2 per candle
* flux (for copper foil work) - £7
* flux remover - £7
* Solder 50/50 - £13 per 500g
* Solder 60/40 - £15 per 500g
* Lead came - £3-6 per 2m (varies depending on size)
* copper foil - ~£5 per 35m
* cement - £6 per kg
* whiting £1 per kg

'''Glass supplies'''
* A 10 sheet mixed pack (10"x6") costs about £25
* single sheets (12" x 12") - £4-6 depending on design
* horticultural glass for practise - ~£2 per 2' sq sheet

== Charging for supplies ==

The easiest approach would be to charge by area of glass used, length of lead came used + per piece of solder. The cost of other supplies would be incorporated in the price. Glass cost needs to cover "wastage". There is also an ongoing maintenance cost for the grinder and the glass cutters.

Equipment

2013-08-20T12:23:46Z

Tmonca: /* Proposals and Notes */

[[File:Laser-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
[[File:Makerbot-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
[[File:Roland-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
[[File:WP_20130509_005.jpg||thumb|320px|link=Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
[[File:Lathe-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
[[File:Powertools-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
[[File:Electronics-thumb.jpg|framed|link=Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
[[File:fine_metal_DSC_7694.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine metalwork Workbench]]
[[File:8633913103 92f52a697d c.jpg|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking bench]]
[[File:300xq.PNG|thumb|320px|link=Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]

The equipment you can find in Makespace.

== Using our Equipment ==

There is a large and growing variety of equipment and tools; some are safe to use, some can be dangerous or are expensive and need training before use. We have divided all the tools below into [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]]. Make sure you understand which class a tool is in before you attempt to use it, and read the associated wiki page.

[[The right tool for the job]] has some notes on what tools to use for various tasks.

Smaller equipment is listed on the [[Things and stuff]] page.

== The Workshop ==

* [[Equipment/BandSaw|BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Router|CNC Router]]
* [[Equipment/Drill_Presses|Drill Presses]]
* [[Equipment/Grinder|Grinder]]
* [[Equipment/Lathe|Lathe]]
* Metalwork Benches
* [[Equipment/Power_Tools|Power Tools]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline lathe|Sherline lathe]]
* [[Equipment/Sherline mill|Sherline mill]]
* Woodwork Benches

== The Space ==

* [[Equipment/3D_Printer|3D Printer]]
* [[Equipment/CNC_Model_Mill|CNC Model Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Electronics_Workbenches|Electronics Workbenches]]
* [[Equipment/Fine_metalwork_bench|Fine Metalwork Bench]] and [[Equipment/Flexible_Shaft_Drill|Flexible Shaft Drill]]
* [[Equipment/Glassworking|Glassworking kiln, torch and associated tools]]
* [[Equipment/Laser_Cutter|Laser Cutter]]
* [[Equipment/PCB_Mill|PCB Mill]]
* [http://www.pattesters.co.uk/pat-testers/basic-pat-testers/seaward-primetest-100-pat-tester PrimeTest 100 PAT Tester]
* [[Equipment/VacuumFormer|Vacuum Former]]
* [[Equipment/Vinyl_Cutter|Vinyl Cutter]]
* General Tools
** [http://www.machinemart.co.uk/shop/product/details/clarke-cht641-199-piece-diy-tool-kit-with-cant Clarke CHT641 199 Piece DIY Tool Kit With Cantilever Tool Box]

== Proposals and Notes ==

* [[Equipment/CNC_Metal_Mill|CNC Metal Mill]]
* [[Equipment/Hand_Tools|Hand Tools]]
* [[Equipment/PurchasedFromGrant]]
** [[Equipment/BandSaw]]
* [[Equipment/Stained_Glass|Stained Glass]]

== Related ==
* Full equipment database [http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/ http://makespace-equipment-db.herokuapp.com/].
* [[Infrastructure|Makespace Infrastructure]]
* [[Equipment/ToolClasses|Tool Classes]] - for safety and training requirements.
* [[Equipment/NewKit|New Kit]] - process for adding to our equipment inventory.
* [http://techtv.mit.edu/collections/ehs-videos/videos Introduction to Machine Shop Tools and Skills]