Nice build. On my diode laser I also made an adjustable Z axis, makes focusing so much easier than propping the work piece on various things to get to the proper focal length.

 

Nice job Rob ! I hope to do something like this soon. I would like to be able to cut the three ply 5mm plywood you get at the box stores (HomeDepo, Lowes). By chance, have you tryed cutting plywood with your 6 watt Laser ?

 

You cut thru a 1/2" material? WOW, that's great news. It will open up many possibilities. It may eliminate the need for CO2 laser, if time is not of an essence.

 

This is awesome! I'm also building ACRO to cut model airplane parts as well! I'm planning to use mostly 1/8 and 3/32 balsa and 1/64 ply and 1/8 lite ply. I'm a total newbie and need all the help I can get! The fact that you are using this laser for the same thing makes it easier to comprehend things.
My question is: why do you need a z-axis if you are cutting sheets of balsa? Is it needed if I'm cutting multiple thicknesses at once(1/4" for flaps, 1/8 for ribs, etc)?

 

most cases u have to make multiple passes to cut your material so the focal point changes very or very other pass

 

Makes sense! Any chance you can share details of construction? 3d part files, components used(where to get them), how to prepare a cut file for multi pass.

 

Any chance to share STL or model files .This is great idea

 

Do you mind sharing your laserweb setup?

 

Hi! Nice build. I too am into RC flying and hence the reason I landed on this website. I know diddly about laser CNC lazer cutters. I was hoping you could share what resources you used to build your setup? It seems that your build would be ideal for what I'm wanting to do. Any advice would be awesome!