Making money with diode lasers- Batch production

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 พ.ย. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 70

  • @PoppysWorkshop
    @PoppysWorkshop ปีที่แล้ว +5

    “Never let the laser wait on you.” Great advice on productivity! Thank you for sharing your process!

  • @twinenk15
    @twinenk15 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    As I research Diode Lasers, CO2s and CNCs. I find myself coming back to your page. xTool seem to be on top and they are proud of their product. so I am thinking I can bit the bullet. Save up and jump into this space well equipped. Then I stumble on another video you posted on The Beast, the Atezr V35. Which you later extended the work area and build a large an impressive enclosure. That gives me an affordable option to xTool.
    The statement you made , "I test the machine in a business environment," is one of the main reason I keep coming back to your page.
    Now I am thinking of the type of projects I want to take on. Like slate coasters, signs, tumblers, and engrave photos in glass. Letting projects guide my purchasing decision.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Yes, make sure the work area is compatible with what you plan to do with the machine. There are lots of good options out there but each has its strong points and negatives. I use my machines on projects and jobs every week and not every machines is built for every job.

  • @joterry7928
    @joterry7928 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    It was so great seeing you at Craft-a-cropolis today! Praying for your continued recovery!

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, hope yall had fun... Good to see all of yall

  • @pkupmanvt
    @pkupmanvt 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Got my first laser yesterday, went with the S1. Love it so far, but was super disappointed to find out the latest firmware removed the feature in this video of just hitting the go button for rerun. I looked everywhere in software before heading to google. Hopefully they bring it back...

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Maybe so, I hadn't noticed it was gone.

  • @patrickjames3954
    @patrickjames3954 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    GREAT to see you moving around!!!!!!!!

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      Great to be moving around, thanks

  • @cathygrant6838
    @cathygrant6838 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Efficient process! you are definitely ready when retirement is knocking on the door! I loved seeing all the signage you have made for your "shack". Like the command center, the boxes labeled, shack keys etc. Good inspiration for beginners like me. Just using mine for Christmas gifts and fun, but i still learn from all these videos . thanks for taking the time to film and share. Glad the surg. recovery is going well.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks.. Yea, you can get carried away with custom signage... lol

  • @kennypapi-chulo9292
    @kennypapi-chulo9292 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good video Clack, glad you're feeling better. Love the tip about having 2 monitors.
    See you tomorrow night on the Live stream.
    Kenny - Tampa

  • @jimshackelford4267
    @jimshackelford4267 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hey Clack, how about a video to show us how to split the screen on the big monitor!

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      Grab the bar at the top with the mouse and drag it to one side or the other of either monitor. Windows will automatically throw it in the side of the screen.

  • @terryclair2914
    @terryclair2914 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Glad to see you getting around better! Another great Video.

  • @jackjfb8439
    @jackjfb8439 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video! Good to see you moving around better, young man.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, great to be able to move better,,

  • @jonathansharp5640
    @jonathansharp5640 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Love your videos. It's been helpful in developing skills with my laser. Quick question - could you have batched out these beehive panels on the S1 faster with the automatic conveyor feeder accessory? Seems possible. The conveyor allows for a media length of 118" (at a width of 19.6"), so maybe beehive panels taped end-to-end on a long sled? Could fit maybe 5 of the larger beehive panels and 10 of the smaller ones (two rows of five). Just curious if it is feasible. I hope they send you the conveyor too. Keep up the great content.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      You have to take into consideration setup time, having to align them would take longer than simply setting it on the workspace. Also, adding the conveyor requires additional space that I do not want to dedicate to something that I would only need occasionally (assuming that it did help). Also, I am not sure I trust the rollers not to slip or cause shift in the dusty world of woodworking. In an office environment, the rubber rollers would probably stay sticky but in my shop, even rotary rollers struggle after a few weeks in the dust. Everyone's situation and perspective is different, that is just mine.

    • @jonathansharp5640
      @jonathansharp5640 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@TheClackShack Thanks for the quick response. Having a conveyor taking up valuable space in the shop would certainly be a pain. As you mentioned, I'm very curious about roller traction and power of the motors feeding the material. Keep on burnin'!

  • @beavercreekdesign
    @beavercreekdesign ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the video! Glad you are back mobile!

  • @WhisperGentleman
    @WhisperGentleman 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Do you have step by step instructions on how to build those enclosures?

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I have a couple of videos but not step by step.

  • @karenhadden4980
    @karenhadden4980 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great tips! Thank you! What grit sandpaper do you use?

  • @bigcountry734
    @bigcountry734 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I'm a greenhorn, a bought a atezr p20, using it in my garage// shop. I live in Texas on the gulf coast and next to a canal with saltwater, should i build a encloser or add a dehumidifier inside the shop. if i build or don't build the encloser what setup to use for removing smoke out of the room besides opening the doors.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  10 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      For your materials sake, a dehumidifier will help. I haven't had any machine issues with humidity so far.

  • @neilbryansanchez
    @neilbryansanchez 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What brand and model of laser engraver is in the enclosure Zilla? The bigger enclosure. What size is its work area? Thanks I appreciate your videos!

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I had both the P20 and V35 in there for a while. 430x850

  • @leeschwartz5411
    @leeschwartz5411 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just curious, why not use 3- 60w, or 80w, or 100w machines with bigger work beds or is there some other advantage to your system now, great vids, can you do a video about this topic thanks, continued success to you also.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      mostly cost and size requirements. These guys are far cheaper, more versatile and compact than any larger CO2 on the market. Other than that, there isn't the need for the overhead expense and maintenance of the bigger machine. Keep in mind, I have built my customer base around what machines and capabilities I have. I didn't buy machines then try to find customers for them.

  • @chrisoliver3851
    @chrisoliver3851 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi new to your channel thanks for all the info. I just got my S1 and am learning the machine. are you saying with the jig you made you took the honey comb out and doubled sided tape stuck to the bottom of the unit securing the jig?...Thanks again Chris

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      yes, I used carpenters tape. It is easily removable after use but holds well.

  • @craftingwithjean5599
    @craftingwithjean5599 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    They look great.

  • @petecreats9280
    @petecreats9280 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love your shop, question ❓ how would I go about getting customers for starting up my own business?
    Thanks Pete

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      cheap marketing, start a facebook page and market to your local area, word of mouth works good in some areas. Its a hussle and takes a while to get known.

  • @jamesmanson1555
    @jamesmanson1555 9 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Curious how the air assist causes sone scorching?
    Definitely a newbie question, but I ordered my S1 and waiting on it to arrive. Trying to learn as much as possible.
    Great video and thanks so much.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Not enough air can cause scorching, you need just enough to keep it from scorching

  • @cmjphoto
    @cmjphoto ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Another great video! I’m 2 months in to the laser venture, and your channel has been instrumental in my progress, especially your jig systems which I’ve purchased and LOVE!! Quick question: can you recommend a supplier for the laser safety panels? I’m ready to build my own enclosure and at the moment, that’s the missing element. Cheers!

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      JTech photonics is where I order mine. I have ordered several sheets from them. The shipping is a little high so order as much as you need on the first order. jtechphotonics.com/?product=445nm-laser-shielding-24-x-12

    • @cmjphoto
      @cmjphoto ปีที่แล้ว

      @@TheClackShack perfect. Thank you again!

  • @Grandpa_LBM
    @Grandpa_LBM ปีที่แล้ว +1

    good job, thanks for sharing

  • @creekbottomtradingco.4556
    @creekbottomtradingco.4556 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Understanding you are giving the “Family Discount” how did you price out this job?

    • @Bigwill2550
      @Bigwill2550 ปีที่แล้ว

      im curious how you would price this too

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      With this being a customer who provided the graphic that was already usable and required no editing and the fact that I was doing 120 pieces, I didn't change any setup fee. Also, the items were provided by the customer with no cost to me. All I charge for is the burn. Using my jigs, I have very little setup for each burn. I them determine how long each burn will take, (Using the slowest machine being used) On this job, each burn only took around 7 minutes on the 20 watt. If I operate efficiently, that means that my slowest machine can turn out about 8 units per hour. I try to get $40-50 per hour per machine for burns. That means that at $5 per burn, I make $40 per hour on my slowest machine. I ran 3 machines on this job, a 20 watt Algolaser, an Atezr V35 and the xTool S1. The faster 35 and 40 watt machines actually get me a little better turn around time to make up for my miscalculations. Running this job, my hourly income was around $120 hour (STANDARD PRICING) but I do give Jason the friends and family discount and didn't charge him that much. I feel that $120 per hour or $600 before lunch is a pretty good check had this been a regularly priced job.
      My rule of thumb has became, if its an easy setup and low risk burn that I can cover the burn with my hand $5-10 per burn. tumblers or engraves that are slightly larger than one hand 15 to 20 each burn. Anything bigger than that, use time it will take plus expenses and base it on what you wanna make per hour. Bulk jobs are best because jiggin them makes it fast.

  • @BillEngrave
    @BillEngrave 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    You have been a great help God Bless

  • @iron03man
    @iron03man ปีที่แล้ว

    What glass are you using on your enclosures ? I have an enclosure I just had built by a friend that builds cabinets. It has three 12’x12’ openings for the glass.

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Laser safe acrylic from JTech photonics

    • @iron03man
      @iron03man ปีที่แล้ว

      @@TheClackShack Thank you for the info !

  • @chucklenz9011
    @chucklenz9011 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    If your machine cycle time is say 3 minutes then 10 .10’s is 1/3 of another panel. It all adds up.

  • @onemanwithatractor2800
    @onemanwithatractor2800 ปีที่แล้ว

    How fast is that s1 on that size engraving? Thanks!

  • @chucklenz9011
    @chucklenz9011 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Just remember every .10 of a minute that machine is not burning wood it costing you time to run another job.
    In conclusion I would place a blank piece next to every machine after you have sanded one. The machine makes you money when it burns. “If it ain’t burning your losing.”

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      I have minimal idle time when I am not videoing... lol

  • @rmgf1005
    @rmgf1005 ปีที่แล้ว

    Would an "Offset Fill" be faster?

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      No, offset fill would be about 45 seconds longer and the burn lines would not stay cross grain like I want for the dark burn. Flood fill would add 1 minute and again, the burn lines would not stay cross grain. Contrary to what a lot of people claim, depending on the design, flood or offset isn't always a time saver. I intentionally set this design up to 90 degree angle burn to avoid running with the grain on the burn.

  • @craftingwithjean5599
    @craftingwithjean5599 ปีที่แล้ว

    Curious what is your electric setup so you can use 3 machines at one time? Are they on one 15amp switch or more?

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      This setup is actually on two different circuits but typically with diode setups, you can run 3 on a 15 amp circuit. The lasers really don't pull much more power than the PC.

  • @pizsat
    @pizsat ปีที่แล้ว

    I’m brand new to lasers and looking to buy a cheap, functional diode on a Black Friday sale. Is there a brand I should look at that’s pretty good for newbies and inexpensive?

    • @TheClackShack
      @TheClackShack  ปีที่แล้ว

      There are several companies having sales this time of year. Atezr, Atomstack and Two Trees are some of the most affordable currently.

  • @lightspeedlaserengraving6048
    @lightspeedlaserengraving6048 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Can you “dig” it…oh yea, you surenuff can.