CNC 3018 PRO, adding laser

[Ham123]

Hello.
I'm interested to start with CNC, so I'm looking for CNC 3018 as start machine.

I was curious, if i buy CNC 3018 without laser engraver, can i add any laser to it in future?

Thanks for help in advance!

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[awerby]

I don't think that's a good idea; lasers are dangerous. Even a laser pointer can blind you, but cutting lasers are a lot more powerful. All it has to do is hit something shiny to bounce back in your direction. There's a reason that laser cutters are totally enclosed in special glass, with safety interlocks that cut power when the door is opened.

[PhilipTheArab]

the sainsmart 3018 pro is a good machine worth the investment.

Regarding the laser it does not make a differance if you included in the original purchase or not. You always can go back and buy it separatly

[philba]

You can retrofit a laser to the typical 3018 machines. Just be aware of the laser module size and whether it will fit in the motor mount of your machine. Some the laser modules are too small and will need some shimming to make them fit.

As to safety. Yes, you should put it in a case but don't need special "glass", any acrylic that blocks blue will be safe. Look at laser enclosures online for some ideas. I built one for a 3018 I converted to laser. It cost about about 50 USD but you can get by with cheaper by only having one window. I used orange translucent acrylic on top, front and sides.