FAQs

What is Laser Cutting and How does it Work?

Laser cutting is mainly a thermal process/technology in which a focused laser beam is used to melt material in a localized area. There are three major varieties of laser cutting: fusion cutting, flame-cutting, and remote cutting.  It is a manufacturing process that can eliminate the need for machining on many engineering jobs, enabling you to save money on manufacturing costs.

What is Laser Cutting Used For?

Laser cutting is used to cut materials and is typically used for industrial manufacturing applications, but is also starting to be used by schools, small businesses, and hobbyists.  Our Lasers can cut or etch and the CO2 laser machine can efficiently etch glass. The materials that the laser can cut include wood, paper, cork, and some kinds of plastics. Etching can be done on almost anything, wood, cardboard, aluminum, stainless steel, plastic, marble, stone, tile, and glass.  

Do the Laser Machines Cut Metal?

With a CO2 Thunder Lasers, we can mark metal by using a special compound but we can not engrave or etch directly into it. Fiber lasers absolutely can cut and engrave metal and most lasers capable of cutting through even steel plates are Fiber.The CO2 laser is best used on acrylic or wood projects. However, it is also compatible with other materials such as Leather, Paper, Glass, Stone, Rubber, Felt, Cotton, Denim, Plywood, Walnut, Oak, Maple

What size project can I work on?

The project size is determined by the bed size, or work area of the laser. The Thunder Laser models come with increasing bed size the further up the range you go. Thunder Lasers have a unique pass through function that allows you to remove the front and rear panels and work on longer pieces.

How much money can I make with a laser?

This one really depends on your business model and sales and marketing skills. Having a laser won't automatically make you money. You will still need to be able to find paying customers. That being said a rule of thumb is €1 per minute of laser time. If you can keep your laser busy then there is no reason why you can't use it to make €500/per day.

Do Laser Machines Come Ready to Work?

Our Thunder Laser Machines are ready to work out of the box. An exhaust fan, water chiller, and air pump are included. We even provide the distilled water for the chiller! You will just need a computer, either Mac or Windows and LightBurn software sold separately here 

How long does it take to learn how to use a laser engraving machine?

With the help of LightBurn Software, designing, and photo manipulation easily comprehensible, any user can be up and running in a few hours. 

Do you provide training and support?

Yes we can provide on site training at our studio in Kildare, giving you the chance to try before you buy. We can also provide online training via Zoom. Ongoing support is also provided by our Irish based team.

Can I see a machine in action before I decide to buy?

Yes you are welcome to come to our studio, based in Kildare. We can give you a demonstration. If you have a particular project in mind you can bring some materials or files with you and we can test them on our demo machine for you.

Are their any other costs I should know about?

As well as the purchase price of the laser machine there is an installation and delivery charge.
Installation is €250+VAT.
Delivery is charged at €1 per km from our base in Straffan for the return journey distance.

We recommend LighBurn software which is available here