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| ====Overview==== | | ====Overview==== |
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− | The Fablight is a simple machine to use for cutting flat stock. A part is saved as a dxf file and then imported to FabCreater where features can be set to cut, engrave, raster, or just be reference geometry. In FabCreator, tabs can be added to make sure small parts don't fall to the bottom of the machine along and material properties are set as well. Once the part is set up correctly it is saved to a usb drive to be transferred to the machine. Most of the interactions with the machine happen through the touchscreen which makes previewing and cutting the job a simple task. Cutting tube stock is more intricate. The Fablight Solidworks extension is used to make a 2d dxf out of the 3d Solidworks model by essentially unwrapping the tube until it is one flat piece. This dxf is then wrapped back up into a 3d part in FabCreater before being sent to the machine. | + | The Fablight is a simple machine to use for cutting flat stock. A part is saved as a dxf file and then imported to FabCreater where features can be set to cut, engrave, raster, or just be reference geometry. In FabCreator, tabs can be added to make sure small parts don't fall to the bottom of the machine along and material properties are set as well. Once the part is set up correctly it is saved to a USB drive to be transferred to the machine. Most of the interactions with the machine happen through the touchscreen which makes previewing and cutting the job a simple task. Cutting tube stock is more intricate. The Fablight Solidworks extension is used to make a 2d dxf out of the 3d Solidworks model by essentially unwrapping the tube until it is one flat piece. This dxf is then wrapped back up into a 3d part in FabCreater before being sent to the machine. |
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| ====Demonstration==== | | ====Demonstration==== |
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| # Hit [Accept]. | | # Hit [Accept]. |
| # If there are any small parts tabs can be added to prevent them from falling through the rack by going to the [Process] tab and the clicking the [Tabs] button. | | # If there are any small parts tabs can be added to prevent them from falling through the rack by going to the [Process] tab and the clicking the [Tabs] button. |
− | # Save the file to a usb drive by going to [Job] > [Make]. Note: Make sure this is not saved in a folder of the usb drive so the laser can find the job. | + | # Save the file to a USB drive by going to [Job] > [Make]. Note: Make sure this is not saved in a folder of the USB drive so the laser can find the job. |
| Setting up the laser cutter: | | Setting up the laser cutter: |
| # Slowly open the nitrogen canister so that the system is not filled to quickly and then adjust the regulator to 150 psi. Do not exceed 150 psi because the pressure in the canister is enough to rupture the hose to the machine. | | # Slowly open the nitrogen canister so that the system is not filled to quickly and then adjust the regulator to 150 psi. Do not exceed 150 psi because the pressure in the canister is enough to rupture the hose to the machine. |
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| # Close the door. | | # Close the door. |
| Performing the cut: | | Performing the cut: |
− | # Insert the usb drive below the key. | + | # Insert the USB drive below the key. |
| # Using the touch screen, press [New Job] > your file name > [Select Job]. A preview window will then open up where the model can be checked to make sure everything is correct. | | # Using the touch screen, press [New Job] > your file name > [Select Job]. A preview window will then open up where the model can be checked to make sure everything is correct. |
| # Hit the green checkmark to exit the preview. | | # Hit the green checkmark to exit the preview. |
| # Hit the green checkmark again to move to the next step. | | # Hit the green checkmark again to move to the next step. |
− | # Set the origin by moving the x and y slider bars. The laser head will move with the sliders and the exact position can be seen by the red guide laser. The location of the red dot will be the origin used in the fabcreator software and it should be placed where the use of material can be maximised (usually the corner of the material). | + | # Set the origin by moving the x and y slider bars. The laser head will move with the sliders and the exact position can be seen by the red guide laser. The location of the red dot will be the origin used in the fabcreator software and it should be placed where the use of material can be maximized (usually the corner of the material). |
| # Press [Run Job] on the touchscreen. | | # Press [Run Job] on the touchscreen. |
| # Press the [Start] button to the top of the touchscreen to begin the cut. | | # Press the [Start] button to the top of the touchscreen to begin the cut. |
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| == Safety == | | == Safety == |
− | * | + | *Laser cutting or engraving of many materials can create hazardous fumes. These fumes may be dangerous to breathe and can damage the FabLight. Consult Manufacturer’s Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all materials before laser cutting. The user of the FabLight is responsible for exhaust ventilation and removing cutting fumes from the working area. Before operating the FabLight, make sure that the exhaust system working properly. |
| + | *There are often sharp edges left on the material from the cutting process. Be careful handling a fresh cut piece and use the deburring tools to remove any sharp edges. |
| + | *On a similar note a fresh cut piece is usually hot so check the temperature with the back of your hand before picking it up. |
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| ==Certification== | | ==Certification== |