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Create Large Carved Wooden Box by CO2 Laser Machine Cutting and Laser Engraving
In today's exciting venture, we embark on the creation of our most substantial masterpiece yet – a bespoke box for a valued customer. This project introduces us to the world of precision crafting using a CO2 Laser Cutting and Engraving Machine with 6mm MDF, promising a spectacular outcome!
Design Deliberations: The journey commences with a meticulous examination of our design requirements. We explore the dimensions, opting for a colossal box measuring 450 mm in width, 250 mm in height, and boasting a depth of 400 mm. This venture marks a significant milestone as we delve into uncharted territory, creating the largest box in our repertoire. We used the MakerCase website to create the box, by inputting the measurements of the box. We also choose the thickness of the box.
From Concept to Construction: To translate our vision into reality, we turn to innovative tools. "MakerCase," a user-friendly online platform, aids in swiftly sketching out the blueprint. The open-box design, with a deliberate omission of a finger joint lid, adds a unique touch. We select two fingers for the upright and let the system automatically choose three for the bottoms.
After downloading the design, we vectorize it in Illustrator, ensuring precision by focusing solely on the box's edges. The resulting DXF file is imported into our RDWorks program, where we fine-tune the details for the laser engraving process. When importing, choose the side that you will be cutting, and drag the design over the layout of the side.
Laser Engraving Wizardry: Our laser engraving journey kicks off with strategic planning. By colour-coding the design, we streamline the process. Purple signifies cutting areas, while black marks regions for engraving. This careful selection allows for efficient handling, making the task at hand more manageable.
Fine-tuning the laser engraving settings becomes an art. Running at 450 mm/s, the engraving process employs a 40% power setting. Simultaneously, the cutting speed is set at 20 mm/s, with 75% power. This meticulous calibration ensures a flawless execution of the design without damaging the cutting process.
We are now ready to cut out the pieces, and we will be doing one side at a time. The artwork needs to be visible on the page, otherwise it won't get cut. We will be cutting from a flash, so save the file to a flash drive and head on over to the machine to start cutting. At our CO2 Laser Cutting and Engraving Machine, we use the display and control panel to select the file. We can also see how long the job will take to cut!
Assembly Symphony: With all components laser-cut to perfection, we transition to the assembly phase. Cleaning becomes a priority as we use a solution of sunlight soap and water to eliminate residue. The pieces are left to dry, ready to be seamlessly joined using quick-dry wood glue. Apply the glue on the fingers, and more glue can be added to the gaps where needed. We then use tape to hold the box together while it dries, for about 10 minutes.
Once satisfied that box is securely glued together, we apply black spray paint onto the lid and the body, transforming it into a work of art. The wood's natural absorption qualities make spray painting an efficient choice, providing a sleek finish.
Final Flourish: After a brief drying period, the box is ready for its grand reveal. The completed box, an embodiment of craftsmanship and innovation, stands as a testament to our dedication and passion, made possible with AM.CO.ZA'S CO2 Laser Cutting and Engraving Machine!
Your Turn to Shine: Inspired by our journey? Feel free to replicate this template for future projects. The website mentioned earlier, "MakerCase" serves as a valuable resource for crafting boxes from scratch. Let your creativity soar as you embark on your DIY adventures!
As we conclude this project, the only step left is for the customer to pick up the lid and place it atop the box. And there you have it – a job well done!
Until our next creative endeavour!
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For more info on Advanced Machinery visit am.co.za/
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