Changes

''(We offer a [[Introduction to 2D laser cutting with the Universal PLS4.75 Laser Cutter|workshop]] to allow members the use of the PLS4.75. Generally during the semester, it is offered once a week.)'' The '''Universal Laser Systems PLS4.75 ''' is a 2D [[Manufacturing techniques#Subtractive manufacturing|subtractive manufacturing ]] laser cutter machine. A '''laser cutter''' uses a focused, high power column of photons cut stock with extreme quality and precision. Due to its large bed size, the laser cutter is most useful for project where you need either a very precise subtractive process or need to cut stock that is too large for our other subtractive devices, like the [[Bantam Tools PCB Mill|Bantam Tools PCB Mill]].==Safety==All laser cutters are dangerous machines. There are a host of safety checks in place to make sure that the machine operates as safely as possible, but as the operator, you must also be mindful. There are four important precautions to take when using this machine: #'''Never run the laser cutter without the filtration/exhaust unit running.'''#'''Never stare into the laser.'''#'''Never cut anything that isn't on the [[ULS PLS4.75 Laser Cutter#Materials|list of approved materials]]'''.#'''NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER UNATTENDED WHILE RUNNING.''' This machine is susceptible to fire, and walking away from a running job will result in you losing you laser cutter access.#If using mirror material, '''never have the mirror facing up'''. The laser may bounce off the mirror. Make sure the dull side faces you. ==Materials== ===NEVER CUT THESE===Some materials, when used on the laser cutter, produce chemicals that are extremely <u>'''''hazardous'''''</u> and '''''<u>deadly</u>''''' to ingest. The following materials should '''<u>NEVER</u>''' be used on our system.{| class="wikitable"!Material!Other names!Common objects!Danger!Notes|-|PVC|Polyvinyl chloride, vinyl|Vinyl from the vinyl cutter, pipes, water-resistant clothing, imitation leather, canvas|Emits chlorine gas.|Ruins the optics and corrodes the machine as well. But you'll be dead so it won't matter.|-|ABS|Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene|Almost anything which has been injection molded is either ABS or HDPE.|Emits cyanide gas.|Tends to melt instead of cut. But you'll be dead so it won't matter.|} ===Approved===The following materials are allowed to be used on the laser cutter and can be found within DaBL.{| class="wikitable"!Material!Notes!Warnings|-|Acrylic|Cast acrylic will etch, extruded will not.||-|Many solid woods||Avoid oily or resinous woods, as they have a tendency to catch fire.|-|Plywood and composite woods||Glues will reduce efficacy of laser cut.|-|MDF and engineered woods||More charring than other wood products.|-|Paper||Cut a single layer at a time to avoid fire.|-|Cardboard||Watch for fire.|-|Leather|Consider our custom Leather.las setting|Watch for fire and material warping.|-|Rubber||Watch for fire.|-|Felt|Consider our custom Felt.las setting||} ===What if what I want to cut isn't listed?===Check with a [[Creative and Technical Specialist|CaTS]] to make sure your material is cuttable. '''DO NOT CUT ANYTHING THAT IS NOT ON THE APPROVED LIST WITHOUT FIRST GETTING APPROVAL.''' ==Machine Specs=='''Bed size''': 457mm x 609mm (18in x 24in) ==How to use==if you would like to learn how to use the PLS4.75 or need a refresher, see the [[Introduction to 2D laser cutting with the Universal PLS4.75 Laser Cutter|workshop]] page.==External Links==An extended list of materials with more information can be found [https://www.ulsinc.com/material/materials-library here].