Thunder Laser NOVA-51 User manual

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
2
Introduction
This manual has been designated as the thunder laser systems, laser cutting
machine installation and user guide;The manual is divided into five chapters,
Including general information instructions, safety instructions, the key
components of every laser cutting systems and the installation steps, operation
instructions and maintenance instructions from THUNDERLASER Company.
Frist, it should be emphasized that the installation of each system must meet
the requirements, and make it consistent with the installation requirements of
THUNDERLASER. If not, the machine will not working properly,poor performance,
life shortened,maintenance costs increased and even machine damage .
The note is for getting a specific requirement of system installation,and we
hope every customer try to understand these notes before installation and usage,
thus you can correctly install and use. If you meet any installation problems,
you can contact our technical staff and customer service staff.(At the same time,
you can also refer to the machine installation video that we posted on youtube.
The specific URL is
http://www.thunderlaser.com/how-to-use-your-laser-machine/how-to-setup-your-nova-las
er-cutter.html Or
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NpLo1L0NQx8&list=PLjSZrgjcrhs7QucNN-3jx7rZapDGfj
G-5 .)

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
3
Contents
Chapter1 General..................................................................................................................................5
1.1 General Information ......................................................................................................................5
1.2 Designated ....................................................................................................................................6
1.3 Disposal remarks ..........................................................................................................................6
1.4 Technical Data/Device Specification ............................................................................................7
1.5 Manufacturer’s Label ....................................................................................................................9
Chapter 2 Safety..................................................................................................................................10
2.1 General Safety Information ......................................................................................................10
2.2 Laser Safety Information ..........................................................................................................12
2.3 Safety Precautions When Operating the Device .......................................................................13
2.4 Warning and Information Labels ................................................................................................14
Chapter 3 Process of Installing ........................................................................................................16
3.1 Unpacking ...................................................................................................................................16
3.2 Location........................................................................................................................................17
3.3 Before Installaion ........................................................................................................................18
3.4 Exhaust System - Requirements...................................................................................................20
3.5 Air System - Requirements...........................................................................................................20
3.6 Computer - Requirements.............................................................................................................21
3.7 Connections..................................................................................................................................22
3.7.1 Connecting the Mains..........................................................................................................22
3.7.2 Connecting the Computer....................................................................................................23
3.7.3 Connecting the Exhaust System ..........................................................................................24
3.7.4 Connecting theAir System..................................................................................................26
3.7.5 Connecting the Cooling System ..........................................................................................27
Chapter 4 Operation .........................................................................................................................28
4.1 Machine View .............................................................................................................................28
4.2 ON/OFF Switch ..........................................................................................................................32
4.3 How to use the TL-Timer ...........................................................................................................33
4.4 How to replace the 4 inch laser head and HR laser head ............................................................35
4.5 How to adjust focus distance using manual/auto ........................................................................37
4.6 How to Use the Display ..............................................................................................................40
4.6.1 Function of the Buttons .......................................................................................................40
4.6.2 The Main Interface...............................................................................................................42
4.6.3 Speed Key............................................................................................................................43
4.6.4 Max/Min Power Keys..........................................................................................................43
4.6.5 Set the Layer Parameters .....................................................................................................44
4.6.6 Z/U Key...............................................................................................................................44
4.6.7 Z Move ................................................................................................................................45
4.6.8 U Move................................................................................................................................45
4.6.9Axis Reset+..........................................................................................................................45
4.6.10 Manual Set+.......................................................................................................................46
4.6.11 Laser Set+..........................................................................................................................46
4.6.12 Origin Set...........................................................................................................................47
4.6.13 Set Fact Parameters............................................................................................................48

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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4.6.14 Def. Fact Parameters..........................................................................................................48
4.6.15Auto Focus.........................................................................................................................48
4.6.16 Language ...........................................................................................................................48
4.6.17 IP Setup..............................................................................................................................49
4.6.18 Diagnoses...........................................................................................................................49
4.6.19 Screen Origin.....................................................................................................................50
4.6.20 File Key .............................................................................................................................51
4.6.21Alarm Information of Display............................................................................................53
4.7 The First Time Running the Laser ..............................................................................................54
4.8 WorkstationArea Indication.........................................................................................................56
4.9 Rotary EngravingAttachment ....................................................................................................57
4.10 For Laser Engraving .................................................................................................................60
Chapter 5 Maintenance ....................................................................................................................61
5.1 Cleaning the Laser Machine .......................................................................................................61
5.2 Cleaning the Optical Parts ..........................................................................................................62
5.2.1 Cleaning the Focus Lens......................................................................................................62
5.2.2 Cleaning the Mirrors ..........................................................................................................64
5.2.3 Cleaning Beam Combiner....................................................................................................66
5.3 Maintain the X/Y/Z Rails ...........................................................................................................67
5.4 Check the Beam Path ..................................................................................................................68
5.5 Change Cooling Water for The Water Chiller...............................................................................69
5.6 Maintenance Plan ........................................................................................................................70

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
5
Chapter1 General
1.1 General Information
Caution:
Please read and follow this Operation Manual carefully, before installation
and operation. Damage to persons and/or material can result from not following
individual points of the Operation Manual!
Operation of the system is only permitted with equipment and spare parts
supplied or listed in the spare parts and consumables lists.
Auxiliary equipment must be adjusted to the base machine (any queries to
dealer or manufacturer).
The following symbols are used for easier understanding of the Operation Manual:
Caution: This component is under voltage. In these areas strictly
observe the safety instructions regarding electricity. Care is to be taken
in particular during maintenance and repair work.
Caution: In this area pay attention to the possible dangers of the laser
beam.
Caution: Warning of hand injury
Caution: Indicates the potential for fire danger when operation the
laser. Do operate the laser machine when unattended
Tips: Note or information on individual components of the device that
simplify the use or make it more understandable.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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1.2 Designated
The THUNDER LASER NOVA-51 is used for engraving and cutting of signs, stamps
and suchlike.
A wide variety of materials such as rubber, acrylic, coated metal, tin, special steel,
anodized aluminum, cork, cardboard, glass, leather, marble, several plastics and wood
can be processed on the laser.
1. The engraving process must only be performed with a perfectly adjusted machine.
2. For cutting applications with 100 W the use of the cutting table is absolutely necessary.
3. Use of the system in other areas is against the designated use. The manufacturer does
not admit liability for damage to personal and/or equipment resulting from such use.
4, The system must only be operated, maintained and repaired, by personnel that are
familiar with the designated field of use and the dangers of the machine!
5. Non-observance of the instructions for operation, maintenance and repair described in
this Operation Manual excludes any liability of the manufacturer if a defect occurs.
6. Caution when processing conductive materials (carbon fibers), Conductive dust or
particles in the ambient air might damage electrical components and lead to short circuits.
Bear in mind that those defects are not warranted.
1.3 Disposal remarks
Do not dispose the machine with domestic waste!
Electronic devices have to be disposed according to the regional directives on electronic
and electric waste disposal. In case of further questions, please ask your supplier. He
might take care of proper disposal.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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1.1 Technical Data / Device Specification
Mechanics
Working area 51.2“x 35.4“/ 1300 x 900 mm
Table Size 55.1“x 40.6“/ 1400 x 1030 mm
Z Axis Height 9.1 inch / 230 mm
Max. Height of work piece (Motorized Table, Standard laser head) 9.1 inch / 230 mm
Max. Height of work piece (No Motorize Table, Standard Laser head) 1-2.1 inch /27- 55mm
Max. Engraving speed 39 inch/sec. / 1000 mm/sec. Standard
Cutting speed depending on material, thickness, laser power
Motor Easy Servo Motor
Drive Hybrid Servo Drive
Work piece table Solid metal (Honey comb table)
Max. load of work piece table 30 kg
Net Weight 230kgs (507Ibs)
Lenses available (focal distance) 2, 0”
Focus lens diameter 20mm
Reflector diameter 25mm
Beam combiner diameter 25mm
Dimensions
W x D x H 74.8“x 55.3“x 40.9“/ 1900 x 1405 mm x 1040 mm
Max Part Size (W x L x H)
Front Door Closed 55.1“x 40.6“x 10.6“/ 1400 x 1030 mm x 230 mm
Pass-Through Door 55.1“ x∞“x 1.2“/ 1400 x∞mm x 20 mm
Features
Standard:
Red Dot Pointer, Auto Focus, Motorized Table, Pass-Through Door, Air Assist, Water
Pump, Exhaust Fan, Honey Comb Table, 2,0”(50.8mm)Focus Lens, Easily Adjustable
Home Position, LCD Display, 3D Engraving, “No Water “protection, Emergency Stop,
Maintenance mode, Open cover protection, TL-Timer, The warning light.
Optional:
RotaryAttachment,Water Chiller Attachment, High Resolution head (up to 1000DPI, while
standard laser head Max is 500DPI), High air compressor set (Includes water filter).
Control System
Laser power Adjustable from 2 - 70% (typically 12-70%)
Interface Hardware USB: connect to PC and U-disk
Ethernet: connect to PC
Interface Software RDWorksV8
Operating Modes Optimized raster, vector, and combined mode
Buffer Memory 128 MB Standards

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
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Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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Laser Equipment
Laser Type Sealed CO2 Glass Laser Tube
Laser Power: 80W, 100W, 130W, 150W
Wavelength 10, 6µm
Red dot pointer Laser Power< 5mW
Wavelength 630nm –680nm
Cooling System
Air Cooling System Air-Cooled
Water Cooling System Water Cooled
Electricity, Power, Fuse
Electricity Requirement 110 to 240 volts, 50 or 60 Hz, Single phase
Power consumption 1400W (Assembly 80Watt Laser Tube)
1500W (Assembly 100Watt Laser Tube)
1700W (Assembly 130Watt Laser Tube)
1700W (Assembly 150Watt Laser Tube)
Recommended fuse 15A, 230V (80W/100W Laser Tube)
20A, 115V (80W/100W Laser Tube) and 20A, 230V (130W Laser Tube)
25A, 115V (130W Laser Tube)
Ambient Conditions
Ambient temperature +15°C to +25°C / 59°F to 77°F
Humidity 40% to max. 70%, not condensing
Laser Safety
Laser class CDRH Laser Safety
Laser Class 2(H)
CE compliant FDAapproved

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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1.2 Manufacturer's Label
The manufacturer's label is located on the back of the device (see Figure below).
It is recommended to enter data such as serial number and year of manufacture into the
Manufacturer label below so that you always have this data handy if you have problems
with your device or require spare parts.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
10
Chapter 2 Safety
2.1 General Safety Information
All personnel involved in installation, set-up, operation maintenance and repair of the
machine, must have read and understood the Operation Manual and in particular the
"Safety" section. The user is recommended to generate company-internal instructions
considering the professional qualifications of the personnel employed in each case, and
the receipt of the instruction/Operation Manual or the participation at introduction/training
should be acknowledged in writing in each case.
Safety-conscious of Working
The machine must only be operated by trained and authorized personnel.
The scopes of competence for the different activities in the scope of operating the
machine must be clearly defined and observed, so that under the aspect of safety no
unclear questions of competence occur. This applies in particular to activities on the
electric equipment, which must only be performed by special experts.
For all activities concerning installation, set-up, start-up, operation, modifications of
conditions and methods of operation, maintenance, inspection and repair, the switch-off
procedures that may be provided in the Operation Manual must be observed.
Safety Information for the User and/or Operating Personnel
1. No working methods are permitted that affect the safety of the machine.
2. The operator must also ensure that no unauthorized persons work with the machine
(e.g. by activating equipment without authorization).
3. It is the duty of the operator, to check the machine before start of work for externally
visible damage and defects, and to immediately report changes that appear (including
behavior during operation) that affect the safety.
4. The user must provide that the machine is only operated in perfect condition.
5. The user must guarantee the cleanness and accessibility at and around the machine
by corresponding instructions and controls.
6. Principally, no safety components may be removed or disabled (already here we
emphasize the imminent dangers, for example severe burns, loss of eye-sight). If the
removal of safety components is required during repair and service, the replacement
of the safety components must be performed immediately after completion of the
service and repair activities.
7. Preparation, retooling, change of work piece, maintenance and repair activities must
only performed with equipment switched off, by trained personnel.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
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Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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8. It is forbidden to perform unauthorized modifications and changes to the machine. It is
emphasized, that any unauthorized modifications to the machine are not permitted for
safety reasons.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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2.2 Laser Safety Information
1. To assess the potential dangers laser systems pose, they are classified into
2 safety classes, thunder laser NOVA-51 is a device of class 2. This is guaranteed by the
protective housing and the safety installations.
Please note that improper and warranty operation of the device can override the status of
Safety class 2 and can cause the emission of harmful radiation.
2. This laser engraving system contains a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser of class 2
that emits intensive and invisible laser radiation. Without safety precautions
the direct radiation or even diffuse reflected radiation is dangerous!
3.Without safety precautions, the following risks exist with exposure to laser radiation:
Eyes: Burns to the cornea
Skin: Burns
Clothing: Danger of fire
4. Never try to modify or disassemble the laser and do not try to start up a system that had
been modified or disassembled!
5. Dangerous radiation exposure can result from the use of operation or adjustment
equipment other than that described here, and if different operational methods are
performed.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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2.3 Safety Precautions when Operating the Device
In your thunder laser NOVA-51, a closed safety system is integrated which immediately
stop a job when the protection cover is opened. Consequently an incomplete engraving
can occur if the cover is opened during operation. Therefore, first press the "PAUSE"
button, if you want to interrupt an engraving process.
Please remember the following safety precautions when working with this device:
CO2 Fire extinguishers should be placed near laser
Do not store any flammable materials in the inside of the device. Particularly leftovers of
produced materials have to be removed to prevent fire hazard.
Please maintain Free air-flow surrounding this system. At all times, do not cover during
operation.
These lasers emit invisible radiation; safety glasses should be worn when maintenance
these machines for your protection.
Do not disable limit switches or safety features as this can invalidate warranties and cause
damage to you and the machine.
Do not leave the laser unattended when it is working, small scraps can ignite and without
supervision can destroy the machine if not checked.
Adjustment of the beam path must be performed only by especially trained personnel.An
improper setting can lead to uncontrolled emission of the laser radiation.
Before processing materials the user must verify, whether harmful materials can be
generated and whether the filter equipment of the exhaust system is suitable for the
harmful materials. We emphasize that it is the responsibility of the user, to consider the
national and regional threshold values for dust, fogs and gases when selecting the filters
and the exhaust system. (The values for the maximum workplace concentration must not
be exceeded.)
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) must under no circumstances be processed with the laser.
Should you have further questions before starting work, please feel free to write us
an email at: tech@thunderlaser.com

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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2.4 Warning and Information Labels
The warning and information labels are attached in such positions of the device that could
represent a source of danger during set-up and operation. Therefore, follow the
information on the labels. If labels are lost or damaged, they must be replaced
immediately.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
15

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
www.thunderlaser.com DONGGUAN THUNDER LASER EQUIPMENT CO.,LTD
Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
16
Chapter 3 Process of Installing
3.1 Unpacking
You receive your THUNDER LASER NOVA-51 packed in a wooden box, which contains
the laser machine and additional accessories. The following steps give you an overview of
the unpacking and assembly of the laser. Please follow these steps carefully.
Tips: Keep the packing box. You will require it in case of a return.
Dispose all waste according to the applicable waste disposal law.
1. Put the wooden box on a flat and spacious room for unpacking.
2. Remove the machine box; carefully remove the foam material, which protects the
viewing window of the cover and around the machine.
3. Take out the key,open the door of the laser,Remove the accessories box which
contains all accessory parts required for the installation of the laser machine.
And check if there’s anything damaged or missed during shipping.
4. You will see an attachment table on the machine; please check whether the
accessories are all on the table.
5. Please keep the keys and the warranty certificate well (and please show us your
warranty certificate if you need tech support for the machine failure, then we will provide
you the best technical service).
6. Remove the sponge and nylon cable ties from inside the machine, and then start to
install the machine (below chapters are installation details)

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
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Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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3.2 Location
Before you install the laser system, you should select an appropriate location. Follow the
guidelines shown below:
1. Avoid locations where the system is exposed to high temperatures, dust and high
humidity. (The humidity must not exceed 70% and the temperature must not be close
to the dew point.)
2. Avoid locations, where the system is exposed to mechanical shocks.
1. Fuse protection:
Do not connect other devices via the laser fuse, as the laser system requires the full
amperage.
Tips:
1. Avoid locations with poor air circulation; select a location close to ventilation (if
available).
2. Select a location, whose room temperature is between 15 °C and 25 °C (59°–77°F).
This is fundamental to maintain consistent and reliable operation of a CO2 laser, Metal
RF or Glass tube and the machine itself.
Avoid higher ambient temperatures and strong exposure of the engraver to the sun.
Use blinds, if required.
3. Mechanical shock and vibration of the laser will have detrimental effects on the
performance and life expectancy of the machine. It will manifest (over a period of time)
with a noticeable decrease in performance and increased maintenance required,
possibly even damage. Setting your Thunder Laser up in s suitable temperature
controlled, dust free, moisture free, level, stable surface (a level concrete floor) with
the recommended extraction is critical to the ongoing performance of the machine. It
is also a warranty condition.

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
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Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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3.3 Before Installation
1. Take out the sponge around the laser tube. Like below:
2. Take out the nylon cable ties around the honey comb plate and X axis.
Remove the transparent bag out of the first mirror mounts, the second mirror
mounts, the third mirror mounts and the standard laser head. Like below:
PS: The lid with a set of key and a manual focusing tool for users

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
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Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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3. Open the emergency switch (must do it for the first time to use the machine).
Like below
4. After carried the machine into room, please re-fix the foot of the four corners.
Please refer to below shown:

THUNDER LASER NOVA-51
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Tel :(86)769 826653 Dongguan, Guangdong, China
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3.4 Exhaust System –Requirements
To guarantee the right ventilation during the engraving and the cutting. The device must
be equipped with a fine exhaust fan(generation of rubber dust), if you use an carbon filter
(neutralization of smells) will be better for exhaust effect. A good exhaust fan of the
outgoing air is also required when cutting plastics or engraving wood.
Connection - see section 3.7.3 connecting the Exhaust System.
Do not start the machine without an adequate exhaust system.
3.5 Air System –Requirements
To guarantee do not catch file and too much smoke during the engraving and the cutting.
The device must be connecting with the laser to make sure the laser is safe during the
work.
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