BOSS LS-3655 150w Laser Engraver: Difference between revisions

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| arrived= January 2017
| arrived= January 2017
| doesitwork=yes
| doesitwork=yes
| contact=[[CNC|CNC Area Host]]  
| contact=[[CNC|Lasers Area Host]]  
| where=CNC Shop
| where=CNC Shop
| certification=yes  
| certification=yes
| hackable=no  
| hackable=no  
| value=$17,000
| value=$17,000
| image = BossLaser2.jpg
| image = BossLaser2.jpg
| hostarea = CNC
| hostarea = Lasers
}}
}}


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The BOSS LS-3655 is an industrial CO2 laser engraver with a 35.4" x 55.1" bed, supporting over-sized material pass-thru on four sides and up to 7 inches of table depth.  Originally shipped with 100W tube, but that has been replaced with 150W tube in May, 2017.
The BOSS LS-3655 is an industrial CO2 laser engraver with a 35.4" x 55.1" bed, supporting over-sized material pass-thru on four sides and up to 7 inches of table depth.  Originally shipped with 100W tube, but that has been replaced with 150W tube in May, 2017.
Machine dimensions are 82" x 57" x 45".


== Status ==
== Status ==
* (2019/06/26) Working, 4-in Len replaced by Joe M.  Still waiting on Beam Combiner.
 
* (2019/06/15) Working, 4-in Lens is cracked from overtightening -- DO NOT CLEAN --; Mirrors aligned.  Beam Combiner and replacement lens on order.
CURRENT UPDATES
* (2018/12/07) Working, but not that well. Had to use 100% power and speed 5 to cut through relatively thin leather. Perhaps needs to be cleaned?
 
* (2018/12/01) NOT working. Needs a tube replacement, probably. It's going to be a while. It will not happen faster if you ask when it's going to be fixed. NOBODY KNOWS YET.
[https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Lo9PNANkkx4Dl1Sy7DjJ_oA8nAStV7FFLykrrypabKM/edit?usp=sharing * CLICK TO VIEW CURRENT STATUS OF ALL LASER SYSTEMS] *
* (2018/02/26) Working. Z-Axis motor having some issues? 2-25-2018
* (2017/05/20) 150W Tube & Power Supply installed. Alignment & focusing pending.
* (2017/06/12) The laser has been aligned and focused. 2" Laser lens focal depth set to 5.1mm.


== Software ==
== Software ==
=== RDWorksV8 ===
*The software that drives the Boss laser from the attached computer is called RDWorksV8, the version that is appropriate to use is '''8.01.18'''. That is not the most recent version of the software, but it is the most recent approved version for PS1. It is available for free download if you'd like to set up your files prior to coming to use the laser.
*If you are having issues with loading RDWorks files, verify that you are using the correct version of the software as they are not backwards compatible.
*If RDWorks is missing from your start menu or desktop, or your old shortcut to RDWorks doesn't work, you can find the program at start/C:/Program Files/RDWorks. You can open the program by clicking the RDWorksV8 application in that folder.
** '''DO NOT MOVE THAT APP TO YOUR OWN DESKTOP.''' or everyone will lose access to it.
** If you'd like to add a shortcut to your desktop right click on the application>create shortcut and place the shortcut on your desktop.
=== Lightburn ===
*Lightburn is a paid/licensed software and is very similar to RDWorks but with a cleaner user experience and improved set of features.
*Computer updates can sometimes wipe the license. You can reactivate the local license using the copy of the license found on the root of the C:\ drive of the Boss' computer.
===== Device Setup: =====
You will need to add the machine settings to Lightburn to communicate with the Boss.
In the Laser panel in the lower left corner click on Devices
In the popup window click Create Manually.
* The controller type is Ruida.
* The connection type is Serial/USB.
* Give the device a name "Boss"
* The work area is X: 1400mm Y: 900mm.
* The machine origin is the Right Rear.


*The software that drives the Boss laser from the attached computer is called RDWorksV8, the version that is appropriate to use is 8.01.18
Once you create the device configuration and the machine is turned on Lightburn should display Ready just above the Pause button.
*That is not the most recent version of the software, but it is the most recent approved version for PS1. If you are having issues with RDWorks, verify that you are using the correct version of the software.
*If your old shortcut to RDWorks doesn't work, go to start/C:/Program Files/RDWorks and open the program by clicking the application in that folder. DO NOT MOVE THAT APP TO YOUR OWN DESKTOP. You can create a new shortcut to it, but please do not move it.


== Usage Policy ==
== Usage Policy ==
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* If someone is waiting in line to use the laser, no active test cut or cut series shall be longer than 1 hour. No jobs will be allowed to start that overrun the 1 hour time limit when a new user is waiting.
* If someone is waiting in line to use the laser, no active test cut or cut series shall be longer than 1 hour. No jobs will be allowed to start that overrun the 1 hour time limit when a new user is waiting.
* In the case that your last cut is longer than the 1 hour time limit, and a waiting user presents themselves after the cut has started, the cut job shall be allowed to finish and the waiting user will be allowed to set up their file in their own user account, during the cutting period.
* In the case that your last cut is longer than the 1 hour time limit, and a waiting user presents themselves after the cut has started, the cut job shall be allowed to finish and the waiting user will be allowed to set up their file in their own user account, during the cutting period.
* Continuous cutting shall not exceed 3 consecutive hours without a half hour break for the laser to cool. If a new user arrives before or during the cooling period the current user shall cede the laser to the next user, and the next user will wait for the cooling period to finish and the cooling period shall not count towards the 1 hours limit should another user present themselves.
* Continuous cutting shall not exceed 3 consecutive hours without a half hour break for the laser to cool. Note that you must leave the air assist/cooling switch on to keep the cooling running during this break. If a new user arrives before or during the cooling period the current user shall cede the laser to the next user, and the next user will wait for the cooling period to finish and the cooling period shall not count towards the 1 hours limit should another user present themselves.
* Waiting users shall notify the current user verbally that they are waiting and where they will be waiting until it is their turn. If multiple users are waiting, the next waiting user must start their test cutting or cut job within 10 minutes of being notified of a laser opening. The current user will keep a record of who is waiting, where they will be, and notify subsequent users of the status of the queue. The current user will find the next waiting user and verbally inform them that the laser is available.
* Waiting users shall notify the current user verbally that they are waiting and where they will be waiting until it is their turn. If multiple users are waiting, the next waiting user must start their test cutting or cut job within 10 minutes of being notified of a laser opening. The current user will keep a record of who is waiting, where they will be, and notify subsequent users of the status of the queue. The current user will find the next waiting user and verbally inform them that the laser is available.


== Authorization ==
== Authorization ==


How to get authorized: contact the CNC Area Host or one of the Volunteer Authorizers.  
Authorization for the laser is not virtual, meaning you must fill out this [https://forms.gle/9HSYAVLtJuPLWixXA Sign Up Form] to schedule an onsite authorization.
 
The laser volunteers will be notified automatically after the form is submitted. You will then be contacted when the next authorization is scheduled. (approx. every 2 weeks at the authorizers discretion)
 
If no authorizations are scheduled in the next 30 days, then post on #lasers slack channel; look for a recent thread about laser authorizations and post there.
 
Please review the wiki and the reference materials before attending an authorization.
 
If you have other questions after the reviewing the wiki and reaching out on #lasers slack channel please contact laser-auths@pumpingstationone.org


===Authorizers ===
====Area Host====
====Area Host====
* Joe Mertz
* [[wiki.pumpingstationone.org/Category:CNC]]


====Volunteer authorizers:====
====Volunteer authorizers:====
*Jeff Zelnio
*Jeff Zelnio
*


====Other Authorized authorizers:====
* Ray Doeksen
Since demand fluctuates, and there are a random group of new and old members that want to be authorized at any one time, it makes sense to find the others and figure out your group schedule/plan. There generally is NOT going to be a calendar-based or widely publicized meetup event; you will have to conctact and make arrangements with actual people, at least until the Canvas Learning Management System is implemented more fully. http://canvas.pumpingstationone.org


=== Preparing yourself to become authorized ===
=== Preparing yourself to become authorized ===
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* 1. Know what you're doing as best as you can - come pre-trained on your own time to make the authorization go smoother and faster.
* 1. Know what you're doing as best as you can - come pre-trained on your own time to make the authorization go smoother and faster.
* 2. Have a PS1 username set up before starting the authorization http://members.pumpingstationone.org (from 2018 onwards, you will create a username as part of the signup process or migration to the Wild Apricot-managed member management system. A username is not an email address.
* 2. Have a PS1 username set up before starting the authorization http://membership.pumpingstationone.org
 
* 3. Have some familiarity with the kinds of files you would bring to the Boss to cut.
* 3. Have some familiarity with the kinds of files you would bring to the Boss to cut.


To that end; you could download and become familiar a bit with RDWorks, the software you will use to drive the Boss. Links are on this page.
To that end; you could download and become familiar a bit with RDWorks, the software you will use to drive the Boss. Links are on this page.
You can read a bit of the manual, which is also linked on this page, or watch some YouTube videos.  
You can read a bit of the manual, which is also linked on this page, or watch some YouTube videos.  
To set up a PS1 username (this is NOT the email address you use, it's a different thing, it's entirely special to PS1) go to http://members.pumpingstationone.org, and click "Activate" ... if you don't already have a PS1 username.


Bring files in from Adobe Illustrator in Illustrator format, with lines set to have SOME sort of stroke, I'd recommend 1 point stroke, and some simple color applied to the stroke for each "layer" you want to have in RDWorks. You will want to have one color/layer assigned for each type or strength of cut/engrave you'll be doing in that job. For instance, you might want a deep engraving, a shallow engraving, a cut that goes all the way through the material and maybe a cut that just barely touches the top surface (called a 'kiss cut) and that would mean you would need four distinct colors of stroke used in your file. You should investigate the usefullness of SVG, DXF and DWG files as well, but Illustrator files will give you the best first experiences.  
Bring files in from Adobe Illustrator in Illustrator format, with lines set to have SOME sort of stroke, I'd recommend 1 point stroke, and some simple color applied to the stroke for each "layer" you want to have in RDWorks. You will want to have one color/layer assigned for each type or strength of cut/engrave you'll be doing in that job. For instance, you might want a deep engraving, a shallow engraving, a cut that goes all the way through the material and maybe a cut that just barely touches the top surface (called a 'kiss cut) and that would mean you would need four distinct colors of stroke used in your file. You should investigate the usefullness of SVG, DXF and DWG files as well, but Illustrator files will give you the best first experiences.  
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== Settings ==
== Settings ==
[https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/Boss_Laser_Settings Laser Settings Page]
[[Boss_Laser_Settings|Laser Settings Page]]


* Honeycomb vs. Aluminum Lamella : The honeycomb is used for engraving and pieces that benefit from precise leveling. Use the aluminum lamella (slats under honeycomb) for cutting through to reduce flashback and improve airflow (warning small pieces will  fall through).
* Honeycomb vs. Aluminum Lamella : The honeycomb is used for engraving and pieces that benefit from precise leveling. Use the aluminum lamella (slats under honeycomb) for cutting through to reduce flashback and improve airflow (warning small pieces will  fall through).
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== Procedures ==
== Procedures ==
[https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/BOSS_Usage Boss Usage]
[[BOSS Usage]]


[https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/BOSS_Maintenance Boss Maintenance]
[[BOSS Maintenance]]


=== Powering On Machine ===
=== Powering On Machine ===
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*** PolyStyrene Foam
*** PolyStyrene Foam
*** PolyPropylene Foam
*** PolyPropylene Foam
*** Gatorfoam (fire prone)
*** PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol)
** Other:
** Other:
*** Epoxy
*** Epoxy
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=== Safe Materials for Cutting ===
=== Safe Materials for Cutting ===
** Plastics:
** Plastics:
*** ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene)
*** Acrylic (also known as Plexiglas, Lucite, PMMA)
*** Acrylic (also known as Plexiglas, Lucite, PMMA)
*** Delrin (POM, acetal)
*** Delrin (POM, acetal)
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*** Mylar (polyester)
*** Mylar (polyester)
*** Nylon – melts badly
*** Nylon – melts badly
*** PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol)
*** Styrene
*** Styrene
*** Two-tone acrylic – top color different than core material, usually for custom instrumentation panels, signs, and plaques.
*** Two-tone acrylic – top color different than core material, usually for custom instrumentation panels, signs, and plaques.
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*** Depron foam – often used for RC planes.
*** Depron foam – often used for RC planes.
*** EPM
*** EPM
*** Gator foam – foam core gets burned and eaten away compared to the top and bottom hard shell.
*** <s>Gator foam – foam core gets burned and eaten away compared to the top and bottom hard shell.</s> ''(Removed due to fire prone)''
** Other:
** Other:
*** Cloths (leather, suede, felt, hemp, cotton)
*** Cloths (leather, suede, felt, hemp, cotton)
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[https://rdworkslab.com/index.php Forum for RDworks user group]
[https://rdworkslab.com/index.php Forum for RDworks user group]


== Youtube Channels ==
=== ''Engraving a curved surface'' ===
* [https://www.instructables.com/id/Laser-Engrave-Metal Engraving a flask]
* There is thought to be a BOSS rotary attachment to assist with working with curved surfaces, but have yet to find it.
 
=== ''Youtube Channels'' ===
Following are a couple good YouTube Channels with lots of information on the software and machine
Following are a couple good YouTube Channels with lots of information on the software and machine
* [https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=BOSS+LS-3655+150w+Laser+Engraver SarbarMultimedia]
* [https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=BOSS+LS-3655+150w+Laser+Engraver SarbarMultimedia]
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== Cleaning, Alignment & Maintenance ==
== Cleaning, Alignment & Maintenance ==


* When changing the lens, make sure the convex/domed side of the lens is facing upwards (towards the ceiling) -- "BUBBLE UP"
General info below. More here: [[wiki.pumpingstationone.org/BOSS_Maintenance]]
* Focus Lens should be cleaned once a week with Acetone or Denatured Alcohol
 
* Clean out air filter once a week using the Shopvac.
* Clean out air filter once a week using the Shopvac.
* You can clean the lens without removing it by using a long q-tip and alcohol. Make sure to not leave any residue and make sure lens is dry before testing.
* Sometimes the nozzle itself can get clogged with soot & debris so make sure to clean that out as well.
* Sometimes the nozzle itself can get clogged with soot & debris so make sure to clean that out as well.
* If laser is having problems cutting, run simple diagnostic tests first BEFORE assuming and attempting lens alignment. The alignment document (linked below) shows how to do a 4 corner test. The first video (linked below) shows how to check if laser is firing straight down with a piece of clear acrylic.
* Advanced maintenance is performed by trained volunteers. Please do not attempt to align or diagnose the Boss unless you have clearance from the Laser Area Host.
* When using blue sided tape to test, be careful to not touch or smudge the mirrors and carefully clean with alcohol and q-tip mirors if they do get dirty. During pulse tests, you can try placing piece of aluminum foil sandwiched between two pieces of blue tape to prevent smoke/residue build up.


'''Alignment Links'''
'''Alignment Links'''
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! Trained By
! Trained By
! Date
! Date
|-
|Nikolas Gamarra
|Jeff Z
|9/5/2019
|-
|-
|Andrew Camardella
|Andrew Camardella
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|Paul Ocampo
|Paul Ocampo
|Jeff Z
|Jeff Z
|
|-
|[[User:Robge|Rob German]]
|Jeff Z
|09/19/19
|-
|Connar Rosebraugh
|Jeff Z
|10/03/19
|-
|Ellen Lustig
|Jeff Z
|10/21/19
|-
|-
[[Category:Laser Cutter]]
[[Category:Laser Cutter]]
[[Category:Fabrication]]
[[Category:Fabrication]]
[[Category:Certification Clarification Needed]]
[[Category:Certification Clarification Needed]]
Retrieved from "https://ps1.mywikis.net/wiki/BOSS_LS-3655_150w_Laser_Engraver"
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