FSLaser 36x24 Operating and safety instructions

FSLaser
Professional Series
36x24 and 48x36
Lasers
Setup and Installation Guide
3/21/2013

[ii]
R2.0 –21 March 2013
©2013 FSLaser LLC
4325 West Patrick Ln., Suite 155
Las Vegas, NV 89118
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Technical Support Phone: [phone]
Technical Support Email: [email protected]
http://fslaser.com/resources/software-manual-downloads

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[iv]
Contents
Table of Figures ..............................................................................................................................vi
Fire Warning................................................................................................................................... 1
Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 3
Icons Used in This Manual .......................................................................................................... 3
Part 1: Safety.................................................................................................................................. 4
Overview.................................................................................................................................... 4
Laser Safety ................................................................................................................................ 4
General Operation Precautions................................................................................................... 4
Electrical Safety .......................................................................................................................... 6
Fire Safety .................................................................................................................................. 7
Compliance Statement ............................................................................................................... 8
Part 2: Getting Started.................................................................................................................... 9
Setting Up Your Laser System ..................................................................................................... 9
Parts and Accessories ............................................................................................................... 10
Get to Know Your Laser ............................................................................................................ 11
Connecting the Exhaust ............................................................................................................ 15
Connecting the Water Pump and Air Assist Compressor ........................................................... 16
Water Pump Connection....................................................................................................... 16
Water Chiller Upgrade (Optional).......................................................................................... 17
Air Assist............................................................................................................................... 17
Third-Party Air Assist Systems............................................................................................... 18
Connecting Electrical Power ..................................................................................................... 18
Part 3: Quick Start and Setup........................................................................................................ 20
Overview.................................................................................................................................. 20
Beam Path................................................................................................................................ 21
Laser Tube Test......................................................................................................................... 24
Mirror Alignment...................................................................................................................... 25
Alignment Test ..................................................................................................................... 25
Alignment Procedure............................................................................................................ 26
Focusing ................................................................................................................................... 30
Quick Start................................................................................................................................ 31

[v]
Part 4: Rotary Attachment Setup .................................................................................................. 32
Rotary Attachment Connection................................................................................................. 32
Appendix A: Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................... 34

[vi]
Table of Figures
Figure 1 - Main Assembly.............................................................................................................. 11
Figure 2 - Knife-edge Table (included)................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Figure 3 - Honeycomb Table (included)......................................................................................... 12
Figure 4 - Work Area Interior ........................................................................................................ 12
Figure 5 - Rear Inputs ................................................................................................................... 13
Figure 6 - Laser Head Assembly .................................................................................................... 14
Figure 7 - Y Drive Motor Detail........................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Figure 8 - Exhaust Port.................................................................................................................. 15
Figure 9 - Exhaust Fan and Tubing ................................................................................................ 15
Figure 10 - Water Pump................................................................................................................ 16
Figure 11 - Basic Water Chiller...................................................................................................... 17
Figure 12 - Air Compressor ........................................................................................................... 18
Figure 13 –Optics Set 1 ................................................................................................................ 22
Figure 14 - Work Area: Optics Sets 2 and 3 ................................................................................... 23
Figure 15 - Detail of Optics Sets 2 and 3........................................................................................ 24
Figure 16 - Using the Focus Ruler.................................................................................................. 30
Figure 17 - Rotary Attachment with Glass Work Piece .................................................................. 32
Figure 18 - Rotary Attachment Connection ................................................................................... 33
Figure 19 - Rotary Attachment Loose Electrical Connection Detail ................................................ 33

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[1]
Fire Warning
Laser cutting and engraving systems represent a significant fire hazard due to the extremely high
temperatures generated by the laser beam. While the objective of most cutting and engraving
operations is to vaporize material without burning, it is easy to ignite a flame. Most materials
capable of being cut or engraved are inherently combustible and can easily ignite setting fire to the
machine and threatening its surroundings.
Experience shows that vector cutting with the laser has the most potential to create an open
flame. Acrylic in all its different forms is especially flammable when vector cutting with the laser.
Please also be aware that stacking materials (especially organic materials such as paper) can lead
to increased risk of flame propagation or work piece ignition.
Please read the following warnings and recommendations and follow them closely at all times!
NEVER leave the laser system unattended during operation.
KEEP the area around the machine clean and free of clutter, combustible materials,
explosives, or volatile solvents such as acetone, alcohol, or gasoline.
ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. FSLaser
recommends a Carbon Dioxide fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire
extinguisher. The Carbon Dioxide extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical,
but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher. The Carbon
Dioxide extinguisher discharges a clean, easily removable substance that is not harmful to
the mechanics or wiring of the laser system. The dry chemical extinguisher discharges a
sticky, corrosive powder that is very difficult to clean up.
ALWAYS use air assist when vector cutting.
BE CAREFUL when vector cutting. Many materials have the potential to burst suddenly
into flames –even materials that may be very familiar to the user. Always monitor the
machine when it is operating.
KEEP YOUR LASER SYSTEM CLEAN –A build up of cutting and engraving residue and
debris is dangerous and can create a fire hazard. Keep your laser system clean and free of
debris. Regularly remove the cutting grid to clean any small pieces that have gotten stuck
or fallen through.

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[3]
Introduction
Thank you for your purchase of a FSLaser Professional Large Format (ProLF) Series Laser
System. It is our wish that this product adds value to your business activities for years to come.
Please take time to read this manual in its entirety to safely use your laser to its full potential.
In order to safely setup and use your laser, you should read at least the first seven parts of
this manual
Icons Used in This Manual
This icon marks Warnings and Cautions. Please pay special attention to information associated
with this icon.
The fire warning icon calls attention to fire risks that are present while operating the laser.
Indicates information related to connecting your laser to your computer using an Ethernet
connection.
Indicates a useful tip or information that will help you operate more efficiently.

[4]
Part 1: Safety
Overview
Please carefully read all instructions before attempting to operate the laser. Never operate or
test the laser without the water pump activated or with anything other than pure distilled
water as a coolant. Never attempt to operate the laser with the lid open or attempt to
override the magnetic lid interlock switch. Please inspect the laser tube carefully for any
shipping damage and contact us immediately via email if there are any issues—please include
your unit’s serial number and photos of the problem.
Laser Safety
The output of the CO2 engraving laser is fully contained in a Class 1 enclosure during normal
operation. The laser cabinet has a safety interlock switch that deactivates the laser if the door
is opened during operation, and no special precautions are necessary to operate the high
power laser safely. However, the output beam of the Alignment Laser (visible red diode laser)
is accessible to the operator during normal operation, giving the total system an overall rating
of Class 3R. While this device employs the same technology as a handheld laser pointer, it is
potentially hazardous if its beam is directed into the eye.
General Operation Precautions
The laser operator should observe the following:
NEVER operate the machine with any of the panels removed. Be aware that removal of
any portion of the cabinet will expose a Class 4 laser system and greatly increase the
risk of injury and/or fire. PERSONAL INJURY AND FIRE RISKS ARE ESPECIALLY
PRONOUNCED IF THE MACHINE IS OPERATED WITH THE FRONT ACCESS PANEL
UNLOCKED AND OPENED. Remember that the CO2laser beam is invisible!
NEVER engrave or cut any material containing PVC or vinyl. These materials (along
with other chlorine/chloride containing materials) produce a corrosive vapor that is
extremely harmful to humans and will destroy your machine. Your warranty will be
void if your machine is damaged by corrosion from engraving or cutting PVC or vinyl.
NEVER engrave or cut any unknown material. The vaporization/melting of many
materials, including but not limited to PVC and polycarbonates, can give off hazardous
fumes. Please refer to the MSDS sheet from the material manufacturer to determine
the response of any work material to extreme heat (burning/fire hazard).

[5]
NEVER operate your machine unattended. There is a significant risk of fire if the
electrical failure while operating.
ALWAYS use the air assist, especially while vector cutting. Vector cutting movements
are relatively slow and apply an extremely large amount of heat to the work piece.
This buildup of heat can cause a significant fire risk.
DO NOT disassemble the machine or remove any of its protective covers while the unit
is plugged in.
DO NOT defeat the door interlock.
DO NOT look into the beam of the Alignment Laser (visible red diode laser)
DO NOT operate the Alignment Laser without the focus lens in place. The unfocused
beam can be reflected out of the chassis.
NEVER operate the machine without a properly operating ventilation system. Most
materials produce an irritating smoke when engraved. Some materials, including but
not limited to paint, varnish, composition board and plastics, produce compounds that
can be harmful if concentrated.
Caution –Use of controls or adjustments or performance of procedures other than those
specified herein may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
---
The standard reference for laser safety is the American Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers,
Z136.1-2000, developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This reference is
the basis for many of the federal regulations for laser and laser system manufacturers, and for
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) laser safety guidelines. It contains
detailed information concerning proper installation and use of laser systems. While the ANSI
standard itself does not have the force of law, its recommendations, including warning
signage, training, and the designation of a laser safety officer, may be compulsory under local
workplace regulations when operating laser systems above Class I. It is the operator’s
responsibility to ensure that the installation and operation of the FSlaser ProLF unit is
performed in accordance with all applicable laws. Copies of ANSI Standard Z136.1-2000 are
available from:
Laser Institute of America
12424 Research Parkway, Suite 125
Orlando, FL 32826
[phone]

[6]
Electrical Safety
The AC input power to the FSLaser ProLF unit is potentially lethal and is located on the far right
within the cabinet.
DO NOT open any of the machine’s access panels while the unit is plugged in. Opening
a panel may expose the operator to the unit’s AC input power.
DO NOT make or break any electrical connections to the system while the unit is
turned on.
DO NOT access the electronics area with hands or tools unless the unit is disconnected
from power.
The power supply is capable of outputting DC 20,000V at up to 30mA—always make sure to
give the supply capacitors adequate time to discharge before accessing the electronics area.
This power is also provided to the discharge terminals on the laser tube itself. Your laser
shipped with silicone terminal covers that prevent access to bare wiring—notify FSLaser
support and immediately cease operations if these covers ever slip and expose bare wire.

[7]
Fire Safety
Laser cutting and engraving systems represent a significant fire hazard due to the extremely
high temperatures generated by the laser beam. While the objective of most cutting and
engraving operations is to vaporize material without burning, most materials capable of being
cut or engraved are inherently combustible and can easily ignite. Usually this is a small flame
of burning material issuing from the cut zone which self extinguishes due to the air assist or
de-powering of the beam. However, it is possible for the flame to propagate and set fire to the
machine and threaten its surroundings.
Experience shows that vector cutting with the laser has the most potential to create an open
flame. Acrylic in all its different forms has been shown to be especially flammable when vector
cutting with the laser. Please also be aware that stacking materials (especially organic
materials such as paper) can lead to increased risk of flame propagation or work piece ignition.
Please read the following warnings and recommendations and follow them closely at all times!
NEVER leave the laser system unattended during operation.
KEEP the area around the machine clean and free of clutter, combustible materials,
explosives, or volatile solvents such as acetone, alcohol, or gasoline.
ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. FSLaser
recommends a Carbon Dioxide fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire
extinguisher. Carbon Dioxide extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical,
but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher. The Carbon
Dioxide extinguisher discharges a clean, easily removable substance that is not harmful
to the mechanics or wiring of the laser system. The dry chemical extinguisher
discharges a sticky, corrosive powder that is very difficult to clean up.
ALWAYS use air assist when vector cutting.
BE CAREFUL when vector cutting. Many materials have the potential to burst
suddenly into flames –even materials that may be very familiar to the user. Always
monitor the machine when it is operating.
KEEP YOUR LASER SYSTEM CLEAN –A build up of cutting and engraving residue and
debris is dangerous and can create a fire hazard. Keep your laser system clean and free of
debris. Regularly remove the cutting grid to clean any small pieces that have gotten stuck or
fallen through.

[8]
Compliance Statement
The FSLaser ProLF Laser System is a class 3R laser product, as defined in International Standard
IEC 60825-1.
The FSLaser ProLF Laser System complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, the Federal
Performance Standards for Light-Emitting Products, except for deviations pursuant to Laser
Notice No. 50, dated July 16, 2001. The Center for Devices and Radiological Health of the US
FDA issued Laser Notice No. 50 to permit manufacturers to classify and manufacture their
products in accordance with the International Standard.

[9]
Part 2: Getting Started
Setting Up Your Laser System
Setup of the ProLF laser usually takes less than 1 hour, but there are a few things you will need
to take care of before it arrives:
Purchase distilled water for cooling the laser. Your laser comes with a pump and
tubing for circulating the water through the tube and back into a reservoir. Please
make sure to only use distilled water—neither filtered nor de-ionized water will work
and tap water will cause deposits that can destroy your tube and void the warranty.
Purchase a container to act as a reservoir for the distilled water. Be sure to check the
container regularly to ensure that the water remains clean and deep enough to cover
the pump.
Once your laser has arrived, you will need to do the following to set up your machine:
Remove the laser and accessories from the box
Connect the exhaust, cooling and air assist systems
Remove the zip ties (3) that secure the drive belts during shipping
Connect electrical power
Connect the laser to your computer using an Ethernet cable
Install the latest version of RetinaEngrave (download information can be found in the
shipping box)
Notes:
Please do not throw away the laser’s box and packaging, you may need it later.

[10]
Parts and Accessories
Your laser shipped with the following included parts and accessories:
Table 1 - Included Accessories
Description
Quantity
1.
ProLF laser engraving machine
1
2.
Exhaust fan
1
3.
Exhaust Tubing
2
4.
Air compressor
1
5.
Water pump + tubing
1 set
6.
Honeycomb cutting table and Knife-
edge table
1 set
7.
Power cable
1
8.
Focus ruler
1
9.
Software Download Sheet and
QuickStart Guide
1
10.
Key sets (1 set for ignition and 1 for
compartments)
2 sets
11.
Additional Accessories: Metal Square
for lens removal + Hex Key/Screw
Driver + Clamps
1 set

[11]
Get to Know Your Laser
The following figures will introduce you to the major parts of your ProLF 36x24/48x36 Laser
System.
Figure 1 - Main Assembly
1. Work area lid with protective window
2. RetinaEngrave CapTouch Control Panel
3. Mirror 2
4. Laser Head
5. X cable carrier
6. Emergency Stop (press to engage; twist to release)
7. Main power key switch switch
8. Work area (with included Knife-edge table)
9. Autofocus plunger
10. Ammeter

[12]
Figure 2 - Honeycomb Table (included)
Figure 3 - Work Area Interior
1. X axis drive motor
2. Y cable carrier
3. Magnetic safety interlock sensor

[13]
Figure 4 - Rear Inputs
1. AC power input
2. AC input re-settable fuse
3. Exhaust port
4. Water inlet
5. Air inlet
6. Water outlet