Discover How To Master Curly Maple Laser Cutting!
Welcome to another Material Minute, where we test the limits of laser engraving and cutting! In this post, we’re focusing on the precision cutting of 3.175mm Curly Maple using the Monport Onyx 50W CO2 laser engraver. Through a series of controlled tests, we’ll experiment with different power and speed settings to find the best combination for clean, efficient, and precise cuts on this beautifully patterned material.
Whether you’re a seasoned laser enthusiast or just getting started with woodworking projects, this guide will help you optimize your laser settings and achieve professional-grade results.
Scroll down to discover:
Recommended speed and power settings for 3.175mm Curly Maple
Results from various test cuts and adjustments
Expert insights to improve your own laser cutting projects
Let’s dive in and unlock the full potential of your laser engraver!
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| Setting | Value |
| Material | 3.175 mm Curly Maple |
| Power | 20% to 100% |
| Speed | 5 mm/s to 50 mm/s |
| Air Assist | 5 PSI |
| Frequency | 20 kHz |
| Passes | 1 |
Final results of cut test on 3.175 mm Curly Maple.
Analysis & Observations on Cutting 3.175 mm Curly Maple with a Monport Onyx 50W CO2 Laser
Optimal Cutting Settings
After conducting a detailed power and speed test, the best settings for clean and precise cuts on 3.175 mm Curly Maple were observed at 60% to 80% power and a speed of of 10-15 mm/s. These combinations achieved full penetration while maintaining relatively smooth edges, making them ideal for detailed cuts and production work.
Performance Insights
- Successful Cuts:
The most effective cuts occurred at mid power (60%–80%) with a speed of 10-15 mm/s, ensuring clean separation from the material without excessive scorching. - Shallow or Incomplete Cuts:
At higher speeds (25 mm/s and above), even with 100% power, the laser failed to fully cut through the wood, leaving incomplete cuts. - Ineffective Settings:
Lower power levels (20%) across all speeds was unable to fully cut through, making it more suitable for marking or surface detailing rather than full-depth cuts.
Charring & Overburn Considerations
While slower speeds at higher power (e.g., 5 mm/s at 100% power) resulted in deeper cuts, they also led to significant edge darkening due to prolonged exposure to the laser. This effect may be desirable for a natural wood-burn look but can be reduced by adjusting air assist and using masking.
Key Recommended Settings for 3.175 mm Curly Maple:
- Power: 60% – 80%
- Speed: 10-15 mm/s
- Frequency: 20 kHz
- Passes: 1
- Air Assist: Recommended to minimize charring
These settings offer a balance between efficiency and cut quality, making them ideal for laser woodworking, engraving, and crafting projects.
Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
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