Could anyone give me feedback on a laser to choose? I have had a Jtech 7w that worked okay with my machine but more and more I need to cut as much as engrave. So, I’d like to get something that is more powerful to help with cut times. Everything I cut is 1/4" or less either basswood or plywood. I’d like to get something much more powerful but I’m on a VERY tight budget. I appreciate any suggestions, comments or experiences. I use Lightburn in case that matters.
JTech offers up to 40 watts now.
Thanks for taking time to respond. I just looked at them. I was hoping to find something for less $$$.
The issue for you is how much money do you have available to spend. There are many perfectly adequate Shenzen miracles but they have to be separate from your 3 XXL CNC machine. This means you will have an additional space requirement. You will also forfeit the degree of integration with your CNC machine that JTech provides.
Nominally, the 3 XXL has a 838.2mm (33 inches) square machining area. It can be extended though (see the link for the Frankenpoko below) and you could keep the JTech integration and the large engraving area. It is unlikely that you will get more space than the XXL gives you to engrave when buying a new laser engraving machine. Typically, they offer around 400mm (15.75 inches) square bed size.
Frakenpoko: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QhmluXsYPo
Another factor is the support from Jay at JTech. I am in the UK and I have had nothing but superb customer service from Jay whenever it was required. I had a controller failure some 4 years after purchase and Jay was able to examine the controller in the USA and ship me a new one at a much reduced cost! I would be reluctant to leave such great customer service behind me. Many Chinese items will only be supported until just around the point you have unwrapped them, in my own experience.
When I upgraded my S3 standard sized Z axis from Z-plus to an HDZ and added a 2.2Kw 80mm spindle, I discussed with Jay the sort of laser bracket he could supply. After the discussion, I opted to make my own and Jay was very helpful and supportive.
The image shows the new 10mm thick aluminium bracket in situ. It is bolted into the convenient threaded holes found at the top of the Carbide 3D 80mm HD spindle mount. I drilled four holes for 4 x 10mm two millimetre thick neodymium magnet positions mimicking the laser shroud at the back of the bracket. It stays fixed to my spindle just like the original JTech 3D printed one, which remained attached to the front of the Carbide 3D standard supplied 65mm spindle mount that I used with a makita trim router.
On balance, in your position, I would save up for a JTech laser that output more power. He can supply higher power stacked diode models. I think this may be cheaper than ditching your CNC based system completely. Everything else will remain the same, apart from an updated controller. You will keep the great engraving area of the 3 XXL and the small learning curve and similar integration.
I am in the same boat. My laser is a J-Tech 2.4 watt. I feel your pain in the cutting area.
Let me know what you end up with. Low cost is my need as well.
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I’m looking at a Lasertree 30w. I’m pretty sure at this point it’s compatible, I’m waiting here back from them. Assuming they confirm it I’m going that way. I’ll let you know how it works out. I like the Jtech but just too much money.
Looks pretty good!!
Decent price and about 1.5lb’s. I do like the slide adjustment for beam focus as well, but not sure if it is lens focus of just unit height adjustment?
Are there any brands of laser to absolutely stay away from? Can’t get to work with LB.