Laser Cutter:Maintenance
From Diyode Community Workshop
Consider one of these maybe? http://www.amazon.com/Engraving--International-Available-Copyright-Laser_Power/dp/B00ICZRZW6/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440871558&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=co2+laser+power+meter+150w
For properly calibrating the machine:
- The laser tube does not need to be level or straight. the important thing is that it hits the first mirror in the middle.
- The first mirror should be adjusted to that the beam travels exactly parallel to the Y rail. There is a wooden jig to help with that.
- The second mirror should be adjusted so that the beam travels directly parallel to he X rail.
- At this point, the beam should be hitting in the middle of the crosshair jig on the cutting head. This is also a good time to make sure the cutting head is perpendicular to the X rail (vertical). If the beam is not centered on the crosshair, you must fix that by adjusting where the beam hits the first mirror, then re-check the alignment of the first two mirrors.
- The laser should now cut as well anywhere on the bed.
- Remove the lens, and make sure that the beam is hitting the same spot with bed fully raised, and lowered. Adjust the top mirror as needed.
- Re-install the lens. Hopefully the beam is hitting right in the middle of the lens. If it's not, we have bigger problems.