New member here, signing up today. I would like to get some laser cutting done as a first project. What classes do I need to take to be able to get started? Is there a particular laser safety class available? Or either of the small or large laser class will suffice for me to get started on the project?
Welcome!
If you’ve completed the orientation and facility tour, then you can either take the Big Lasers class or Small Lasers class, depending on which laser cutters you want to use. I am sure someone will jump in soon with a more in depth answer, but you can check the wiki to see which lasers are considered “big” and which are considered “small”.
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Welcome to the space! The big lasers are generally more capable than the smaller ones, so if you’re going to pick just one set to start with I would go big. But it depends what you’re doing. In particular, if you want to cut through tougher materials like 1/4” acrylic or thicker, the small lasers would struggle with that.
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Hey Himanshu, great question! Others have given solid responses here, but I’lla dd a little more info. Generally, all lasers can cut, etch, and engrave. As Martin mentioned, the big lasers are more powerful, which means they can cut through thicker/more dense material, and can also etch and engrave, so they are the best choice for larger projects. The smaller lasers are fantastic at engraving, some argue they are better than the bigger lasers, so they are an excellent choice for smaller, more intricate engraving projects. Both sizes of laser have rotary capabilities (covered in a second class for each size) so you can etch and engrave round materials.
If you have any more questions about wich classes you would like to take, please feel free to reach out. Welcome to Asmbly!