Development of Laser Cutting and Engraving Machine

Abstract

Basically in laser engraving the laser beam burns the top layer of the surface to be engraved. The burnt area is left uncoloured which makes it appear different from the surrounding surface. While in laser cutting laser beam has to penetrate through the surface. This can be achieved by prolonging the beam on a particular area for a long period of time, duration being decided on the strength of material to be cut. We are still collecting data from different resources to know this topic more in depth. In our project we have decided to develop working model of laser cutting and engraving machine. This machine is very useful in our department since it’s a kind of rapid prototyping machine. It can cut out paper patterns and thermoplastic sheets to produce desired shape and patterns. Till now we have collected information on laser cutting, laser and what engraving is. Laser cutting is different from laser engraving, in case of engraving very low intensity laser torch is used as compared to laser cutting. We got a brief introduction on laser, how it works, what are its properties, how to generate it and how to control its intensity. The machine is made using a ~200mW red laser. It might nut cut through chunks of wood but surely burn the top layer. Simulation analyses are performed in CAD software ‘CATIA V6’ in order to simulate each part of the machine. It was helpful for remodelling the moving bed or the job holder, if any errors found during the simulation. Additionally, experiments are performed for the develop laser cutting engraving machine