Getting started with fiber laser engraving can be both exciting and intimidating. These high-powered machines offer precision and versatility, especially when working with metals like brass and steel. To ensure perfect engraving and safety, beginners should follow these essential tips and guidelines.

1 – Tip for Beginners

f you’re using a laser engraver for the first time, these beginner tips are essential. To get the best results from your laser machine, start with the basics and build a strong foundation.

Start with Simple Designs

Use basic shapes or text when you’re just beginning. This helps you understand how speed, power, and frequency settings affect the results. If you are into fiber laser engraving, try using this design as your first engraving, it’s beginner friendly and great for practice.

Know Your Materials

Fiber lasers work best on metals like brass, copper, bronze, and steel. Always select pure and laser-safe material. Blanks for laser offers variety of blanks that are machined from solid materials.

Test Before You Engrave

Run a small test on scrap material to fine-tune your settings before working on your final piece. You can also preview your final outcome from preview button on LightBurn software.

Use the Right Focus

Proper focus is critical for crisp, clean engraving. Set the focus as per your lens. For example, 110mm lens gives perfect focus on 251mm height. Always refer to your fiber laser manual for optimal focus height.

Document Your Settings

Keep a log of your power, speed, and frequency settings for each material. You can also save material settings on LightBurn for future use. This will save you time and materials in future projects.

2 – Safety Guidelines

Always Wear Laser Safety Glasses

Fiber lasers emit powerful beams that can cause serious eye injury. Use safety goggles rated for your laser’s wavelength (usually 1064 nm).

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Engraving materials release fumes and metal particles. Use a fume extractor and most importantly ensure your workspace is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling harmful metal dust.

Never Leave the Machine Unattended

Always monitor the engraving process. Fires can start quickly if the material ignites or settings are incorrect.

Use an Enclosure

If your laser doesn’t come with an enclosed housing, consider adding one to reduce exposure to stray laser beams and particles.

Keep a Fire Extinguisher Nearby

Especially when working with flammable materials like coated metals or plastics.