Home made CNC Laser

[sabastion]

Need a CNC laser to cut up to 1 inch thick x 20" x 24" 0r longer plastics (plexiglass, polycarbonate) and for etching and engraving.

Can one be built cheaper than can be bought? I have looked in these forums but couldnt find anything easily on this topic. I do pull up a lot of stuff from instructables web sight though.

Starting new Home based computer mod and sign business with little money to spend up front. your suggestion are appreciated...ty

[Rodney Gold]

You will struggle to cut 1" thickness of anything due to various factors , you might do acrylic as its a wave guide to the laser beam itself , but polycarb won't cut well.
If you are looking to buy a mainstream laser , you could save by building it yourself , however if you compare a DIY with a chinese laser, I don't believe you will save any significant amount over purchasing.

[sabastion]

Originally Posted by Rodney Gold You will struggle to cut 1" thickness of anything due to various factors , you might do acrylic as its a wave guide to the laser beam itself , but polycarb won't cut well. If you are looking to buy a mainstream laser , you could save by building it yourself , however if you compare a DIY with a chinese laser, I don't believe you will save any significant amount over purchasing.

Ok...then I will use table saw to cut the material to the size I want.

What is a minimum CNC laser you would suggest for engraving and etching=(frost look)?

[Rodney Gold]

I would buy a 900 x 600 mm 80w Reci tubed laser , it will cost you around $4000 with upgrades and spares , you could go smaller and cheaper if funds are an issue , tho $4k + shipping is pretty cheap for a machine as capable as that.