Omtech POLAR 350 User manual

POLAR 350
50W DESKTOP LASER ENGRAVER
OWNER’S MANUAL
V20221021
Read Carefully Before Use
Keep for Future Reference

Thank you for choosing the OMTech Polar 350 as your new laser engraver!
Your CO₂ laser engraving machine is intended for personal and professional use. When used in
accordance with these instructions, the Polar is a Class 1 laser system but some components remain
extremely dangerous. Never disable the preinstalled safety devices and always use your laser safely and
responsibly.
Read this manual carefully before operation. It covers the details of correct installation, adjustment,
maintenance, and—most importantly—safe operation of your new laser. It is intended to be used in
conjunction with your engraving software manual, as the software not only provides image design and
conversion but also serves as the main interface to the laser settings and machine controls. You and any
other users of this device should thoroughly understand BOTH manuals before attempting to operate the
laser.
Keep both manuals for future reference and provide them to ANYONE who will install, operate, maintain,
or repair this machine. Both manuals should be included if this device is given or sold to a third party.
If you have any questions after reading these manuals, please contact us and our support department
will address your concerns as soon as possible.
PREFACE

CONTENTS
1. Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 General Information ................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Symbol Guide .............................................................................................................................................. 2
1.3 Designated Use ........................................................................................................................................... 2
1.4 Technical Specifications ............................................................................................................................. 3
1.5 Components ................................................................................................................................................ 4
2. Safety Information ............................................................................................................................................. 8
2.1 Disclaimer .................................................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 General Safety ............................................................................................................................................. 8
2.3 Laser Safety ................................................................................................................................................. 9
2.4 Electrical Safety ......................................................................................................................................... 10
2.5 Material Safety .......................................................................................................................................... 10
3. Installation ........................................................................................................................................................ 12
3.1 Overview .................................................................................................................................................... 12
3.2 Location Selection .................................................................................................................................... 12
3.3 Unpacking .................................................................................................................................................. 13
3.4 Exhaust System ......................................................................................................................................... 13
3.5 Main Power ............................................................................................................................................... 14
3.6 Cooling System .......................................................................................................................................... 14
3.7 Air Assist .................................................................................................................................................... 14
3.8 Control Computer ..................................................................................................................................... 14
3.9 Wifi ............................................................................................................................................................. 15
3.10 Initial Testing .......................................................................................................................................... 15
3.11 Security .................................................................................................................................................... 16
4. Operation .......................................................................................................................................................... 17
4.1 Overview .................................................................................................................................................... 17
4.2 General Instructions ................................................................................................................................. 17
4.3 Rotary Instructions ................................................................................................................................... 19
4.4 Instructions for Specific Materials .......................................................................................................... 19
5. Maintenance .................................................................................................................................................... 22
5.1 Overview .................................................................................................................................................... 22
5.2 Cleaning ..................................................................................................................................................... 22
5.3 Cooling System .......................................................................................................................................... 24
5.4 Laser Alignment ........................................................................................................................................ 24
5.5 Lubrication ................................................................................................................................................. 24
5.6 Parts Replacement ................................................................................................................................... 24
5.7 Disposal Instructions ................................................................................................................................ 25
6. Contact Information ........................................................................................................................................ 25

1
1.1 General Information
This manual is the designated user guide for the installation, setup, safe operation, and maintenance of
your desktop laser engraver. It is divided into six chapters covering general information, safety instructions,
installation steps, operation instructions, maintenance procedures, and contact information.
ALL personnel involved in the installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and repair of this machine should
read and understand this manual, particularly its safety instructions. Some components are extremely
high voltage and/or produce powerful laser radiation. Substandard performance and longevity, property
damage, and personal injury may result from not knowing and following these instructions.
The Polar 350 works by emitting a powerful laser beam from a glass tube filled with carbon dioxide (CO₂),
nitrogen, and insulating gases; reflecting that beam off three mirrors and through a lens; and using this
focused light to etch designs into certain substrates. The active laser is invisible to the human eye. This
device should never be used while any cover or access panel is open to avoid potentially permanent injury.
When its pass-through is used, care should be taken to avoid possible reflective rays.
The laser tube typically travels along the Y axis during engraving. The first mirror is fixed near the end of
the laser tube, the second mirror travels nearby, and the third mirror is attached to the laser head that
travels along the X axis. The first and second mirrors are located within a protective housing but, because
dust from the engraving process will settle on the 3rd mirror and focus lens, they require frequent cleaning.
With low intensity use, the provided laser tube has an average lifespan around 10,000 hours before
requiring replacement. However, constantly running your laser above 70% of its maximum rated power
can significantly shorten its service life. It is recommended to use settings from 10–70% of the maximum
rated power to enjoy optimal performance and longevity.
The integrated water cooling system must be used with this engraver to dissipate the heat produced by
the laser tube. Similarly, the provided exhaust system must be used in conjunction with an external vent
or dedicated air purifier to remove the dust and gases produced by the engraving process and ensure
compliance with laws and regulations for workplace and environmental air quality. Never operate the
engraver without both of these systems operating properly.
Note that this device broadcasts signals in the radio spectrum as part of its wireless connectivity. Special
shielding or equipment may be necessary to minimize interference with emergency & licensed broadcasting,
particularly in residential areas.
INTRODUCTION

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These items present a risk of serious property damage or personal injury.
These items address similarly serious concerns regarding the laser beam.
These items address similarly serious concerns regarding electricity.
These items address similarly serious concerns regarding fire hazards.
Protective eyewear should be worn by anyone nearby during use.
Nearby objects present a risk of pinching or crushing injury.
This product is sold in conformity with applicable EU regulations.
Safe and legal disposal of this product requires special considerations.
The following symbols are used on this machine’s labeling or in this manual:
The Polar 350 is intended for use engraving signs and other consumer products on applicable substrates.
This laser can process a wide variety of materials including wood and cork, paper and cardboard, most
plastics, glass, cloth and leather, and stone. It can also be used with some specially coated metals. Use of
this system for non-designated purposes or materials is not permitted.
The system must be operated, maintained, and repaired by personnel familiar with the field of use and the
dangers of the machine and the material being engraved including its reflectivity, conductivity, potential
for creating harmful or combustible fumes, etc.
Laser beams are dangerous. The manufacturer and/or seller bear(s) no responsibility and assume(s)
no liability for any improper use of this device or for any damage or injury arising from such use. The
operator is obliged to use this desktop laser engraver only in accordance with its designated use, the other
instructions in its manuals, and all applicable local and national laws and regulations.
1.2 Symbol Guide
1.3 Designated Use

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1.4 Technical Specifications
Model Polar 350
Input Power 110–120 V~ 60 Hz
Power Consumption 600 W
Rated Power 50 W
Expected Service Life
at <40% / 40–70% / >70% Power 11,000 / 10,000 / 8,000 hr.
Laser Wavelength 10.6 μm (10,600 nm)
Laser Tube Diameter 2.2 in. 5.5 cm
Length 35 in. 90 cm
Mirror Diameter 0.8 in. 20.5 mm
Thickness 0.12 in. 3 mm
Focus Lens
Diameter 0.6 in. 15.5 mm
Thickness 0.08 in. 2 mm
Focal Length 2 in. 50.8 mm
Honeycomb Workbed Dimensions 22.5×13.2×0.9 in. 57.1×33.6×2.2 cm
Processing Area
Standard (L×W) 20.1×11.8 in. 510×300 mm
Trayless (L×W) 13.7×8.2 in. 350×210 mm
Rotary 1 0–9.4×2.4–2.9 in. 0–240×60–75 mm
Rotary 2 0–9.4×1.2–2.3 in. 0–240×30–60 mm
Front/Back Pass-Through Area (L×H) 14.1×0.19 in. 360×5 mm
Max. Processing Speed 19.7 ips 500 mm/s
Max. Material
Thickness
Standard 0.59 in. 1.5 cm
Without Workbed 1.9 in. 5 cm
Max. Resolution 1000 dpi
Min. Letter Size 0.04×0.04 in. 1×1 mm
Mainboard Ruida 6442S (RDC6442S-B)
Integrated
Water Chiller
Capacity 1.6 qt. 1.5 L
Flow Rate 142 gph 540 L/hr.
Integrated
Air Assist
Port Diameter 0.4 in. 10 mm
Air Flow 18.8 cfm 533 L/min.
Integrated
Digital Camera
Max. Resolution 5 MP
Field of View 20.1×11.8 in. 51×30 cm
Accuracy ±0.04 in. ±1 mm
External
Exhaust Fan
Rated Power 60 W
Port Diameter 5.9 in. 150 mm
Air Flow 282/353 cfm 480/600 m³/hr.
Req. Operating
Environment
Max. Humidity 20–85%
Temp. Range 40–104°F 5–40°C
Provided Operating Software RDWorks
Compatible Operating Software CorelLaser, CADLaser, LightBurn
Certification CE, FDA
Dimensions 38.2×22.3×9.2 in. 97×56.5×23.4 cm
Net Weight 104 lb. 47 kg

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1.5 Components
Top View
A. Exhaust Fan—This fan pulls out gases and airborne debris from the workbed. To minimize noise, it only
activates with the laser.
B. Cover Interlocks—These switches automatically pause work if the cover is opened.
C. Rotary Plug—This small aviation plug connects to the provided rotary axes to provide them with power
and command signals.
D. Wifi Card—The 2.4 GHz wireless terminal device located behind the central part of the rear panel
provides wifi connectivity for your engraver.
E. Laser Power Supply—This device transforms standard electricity into the extremely high voltage charge
necessary for the laser tube.
F. Y-Axis Rail—The Y-axis rail supports the movement of the laser tube and X-axis rail up and down the
workbed.
G. Rotary Switches—These two switches direct the mainboard and power supply to provide power and
commands to the Y-axis rail or to a rotary axis connected to the rear aviation plug.
H. Laser Tube—This CO₂-filled glass tube is mounted beside the X-axis rail within a protective housing. They
normally move together along the Y-axis rail. The laser’s connection to its power supply is extremely high
voltage and extremely dangerous.
I. Ammeter—This digital display provides the current of the laser in milliamps (mA).
J. Air Assist—This small air compressor directs pressurized air through a narrow tube to the laser head. To
minimize noise, it only activates with the laser.
K. 1st & 2nd Mirrors—The protective housing for these fixed mirrors move with the laser tube and X-axis
rail to allow the laser beam to travel along the Y axis.
Main Components
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L. Laser Head—The laser head holds the 3rd mirror, focus lens, and air assist outlet and directs the laser
beam down into your materials. Its components are normally protected by a rectangular shell that locks
magnetically into place.
M. X-Axis Rail—The X-axis rail supports the movement of the laser head left and right across the workbed.
When using either of the rotary axes, this rail should be positioned to connect the matching arrows.
N. Tray Interlock—This switch stops your laser when the debris tray is removed. For pass-through and
rotary engraving, close this switch using the nearby bracket.
O. Water Pump—This pump circulates your water or laser-safe coolant through the laser tube to keep it
cool and stable.
P. LED Light Strips—These integrated lights help keep your workbed easy to see.
Q. Camera—This fisheye camera helps you position your designs precisely.
R. Water Tank—This tank helps keep your laser tube cool and stable. It arrives full of OMTech antifreeze but
can also be replaced with distilled water.
S. Mainboard—This circuit board located under the left panel controls the engraving process, responding
to commands from your computer’s engraving software.
T. Honeycomb Workbed—The workbed supports your material up to 0.59 inches (15 mm) thick while
allowing effective airflow. It can also be removed to fit thicker materials or to use the rotary axes.
U. Start Button and Laser Status—This button begins, pauses, and resets the engraving process. The ring
around it changes color to indicate your engraver’s current status:
Status Color Meaning
Blue Active Laser
Green Ready to Work
Red Error or Malfunction
Front View
A. Cover—This acrylic window shields you and others from the laser and its reflections, allowing monitoring
of the engraving process. However, you should never stare continuously at the laser during operation,
even through the window.
B. Debris Tray—This tray is easily removable to clean debris after use and to install or remove the honeycomb
workbed. It can also be left open to function as the front pass-through.
C. Laser Key—This lock turns the laser power supply on and off, helping ensure only approved operators
can use your laser.
D. Legs—These padded legs help avoid any damage to your table or counter.
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Rear View
A. Beam Attenuator—This dial provides a master power control for your engraver. It should be turned
completely clockwise to enable your software to use the engraver’s full power range.
B. Remote Interlock Connector—This port functions as a second key necessary to activate the laser tube.
Insert the provided switch to enable the laser or remove it to completely disable the laser.
C. Power Switch—This switch turns on the engraver’s mainboard, cooling system, LED lighting, and wireless
card and places the exhaust fan and air assist into standby mode, ready to activate with the laser. It
should always be turned off between sessions.
D. Power Socket—This socket connects to your main power supply and grounds your machine’s electronic
components.
E. Exhaust Fan—This fan pulls out gases and airborne debris from the workbed, sending it through your
vent to a window or air purifier.
F. Rear Pass-Through—This door can be unsealed to allow larger pieces of material to be fed into or across
the workbed. Additional care must be taken to avoid exposure to the laser beam and its reflections when
it is open.
G. Camera Port—This USB port connects the engraver’s camera to your control computer and engraving
software.
H. Computer Port—This USB port connects the engraver’s mainboard to your control computer and
engraving software.
I. Ethernet Port—This port allows a fast connection between the engraver’s mainboard and your control
computer either directly or via the internet.
Laser Head
A. 3rd Mirror—This fixed mirror transfers the laser from
the 2nd mirror at the end of the X-axis rail downward
to the focus lens.
B. Focus Lens—This 15.5 mm lens directs and focuses the
laser beam to its point of contact with your material.
C. Air Assist—This tube provides the pressurized air from
its compressor to kill sparks and minimize dust and
gases.
D. Laser Beam—The engraving laser itself is invisible but
highly dangerous. Avoid any direct exposure to your
skin or eyes.
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Rotary Axes
A. Rotary Aviation Plug—This plug should be covered during normal engraving. When you will use the
rotary axes, the 4-pin connection will power and direct the rotary motor.
B. Rotary Switches (covered)—These switches redirect power and control from the Y-axis motors to the
rotary axis connection and back again.
C. Tray Interlock—This switch must be held closed by the nearby bracket during rotary engraving. Remember
to reenable the switch by removing the bracket after your work.
D. Alignment Arrows—These arrows indicate the correct position of the laser and the X-axis rail for use
with Rotary Axis 1 (on the right) or Rotary Axis 2 (on the left).
E. Rotary Axis 1—This four-wheel rotary axis is installed into the bottom left corner of the open bay as
shown. The arrow at the end of the laser tube casing should be aligned with the arrow marked 1 on the
right side.
F. Rotary Axis 2—This four-wheel rotary axis is also installed into the bottom left corner of the open bay as
shown but the arrow at the end of the laser tube casing should be aligned with the arrow marked 2 on
the left side.