Co2 Laser focus length
Posted: Tue Jan 08, 2019 6:55 am
I recently fired up a 80 watt Co2 600 x 900 laser. The previous owner gave me the gauge to set the focus length to 55mm. I engraved an emblem I designed, but the laser lines were wide and "fuzzy". I tried re-focusing by a few mm, but no improvement. I experimented with focus length, doing a test fire after each adjustment. At around 75-78mm the laser dot seemed most clear. This put the laser barrel tip about 1" above my work. I re-engraved the emblem with much improved results. I suspect the previous owner may have been using a 75mm lens as he was cutting 1" styrofoam for shipping boxes.
I have 2 questions, how will know what lens I have, and does it take a different laser head barrel for the longer focus length?
I will order a 20mm x 50mm lens for engraving if that is my issue. Is it ok to engrave with a 75mm focus length lens?
I have 2 questions, how will know what lens I have, and does it take a different laser head barrel for the longer focus length?
I will order a 20mm x 50mm lens for engraving if that is my issue. Is it ok to engrave with a 75mm focus length lens?