Discover how to Master MDF Laser Engraving!
In this post, we put the Monport Onyx 50W CO2 laser engraver to the test, engraving 6.35 mm MDF to evaluate its precision and quality. By experimenting with various power and speed settings, we uncover the optimal parameters for sharp, detailed engravings. Whether you’re refining your skills or exploring new engraving techniques, this guide provides valuable insights to enhance your results.
Scroll down to discover the test settings, see the detailed results, and take your engraving projects to the next level!
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| Setting | Value |
| Material | 6.35 mm MDF |
| Power | 20% to 100% |
| Speed | 50 mm/s to 500 mm/s |
| DPI | 254 |
| Line Interval | 0.1 mm |
| Air Assist | 5 PSI |
| Frequency | 20 kHz |
| Passes | 1 |
Final results of cut test on 6.35 mm MDF.
Analysis & Observations on Engraving 6.35 mm MDF
Optimal Engravings:
The most consistent and visually appealing engravings were achieved at 40%–70% power and 250–350 mm/s speed. These settings produced clear and sharp details without overburn, making them ideal for precise and professional results.
Overburn & Excess Charring:
Higher power settings (80%–100%) at lower speeds (50–150 mm/s) caused significant charring, resulting in overly dark and uneven engravings. These settings should be avoided for designs that require clean and fine details.
Light or Inconsistent Engravings:
At lower power levels (20%–30%) and higher speeds (300 mm/s and above), the engravings became too faint and lacked contrast. These settings are suitable for very light markings but not for detailed designs requiring depth or visibility.
Air Assist Impact:
Using air assist at 5 PSI significantly improved engrave quality by reducing charring and clearing debris during the process, resulting in sharper edges and better consistency across the grid.
Line Interval and DPI:
The 0.1 mm line interval and 254 DPI settings provided excellent precision, ensuring uniform results while minimizing material wastage.
Based on our test, the most effective settings for clean cuts on 6.35 mm MDF are:
- Power: 40%–70%
- Speed: 250–350 mm/s
- DPI: 254
- Line Interval: 0.1 mm
- Air Assist: 5 PSI
- Frequency: 20 kHz
These settings deliver crisp, detailed engravings with minimal charring, making them ideal for intricate designs on MDF.
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