Your attitude of sharing knowledge and not gatekeeping it is admirable and has earned my subscription to your channel. (still waiting for my laser in the mail!)
Just wanted to give you a big THANKS 😊. I’m a new laser person, in fact I don’t even have it yet as it’s in the mail. This is the type of informational video that is all needed information. Especially cleaning of the lenses. Thank you again.
You have made this process amazing! You are a wonderful human being! I will be purchasing downloads from you because you have shown me that it's our job to take care of each other. I am super excited to learn more from you. Thank you!!
Have you tried laying a streight edge on the top of the pieces b4 sliding to the left? You are such an amazing guy! Such an immense knowledge base. Love listening to your detailed and gentile speaking tone, your passion about this subject shines!
Thanks Barry! I personally do a ramp test and use a microscope and a crack ruler to get the kerf. I just did this video for people who don't have those tools. Some folks number them as well.
I wish I lived near you so I can give you a huge hug! You are simply amazing, smart, awesome instructor, and giving person. I have learned so much from you (you kept me off the ledge many times. I was ready to jump and give up). I love all your videos. I especially wanted to thank you when you said lenses cost $30-40 do you know a big well known laser company was charging me $100 for a replacement lens from cloudray! My air assist was not working properly and I kept burning out lenses. Which they couldnt help me get right my husband figured it out! They sold me 2 replacements for $200!!! I wish I never bought this laser from these liars. Thank you for making me smart and have more confidence that there are nice real honest people out there! 🖤🖤🖤🖤
WOW! I just tried this on my SculpFun S6/Pro 5.5 w and the result came out with Kerf of 0.056. Now I will be able made some pencil boxes for my granddaughter's for school this year. That is if the SculpFun S30 22w ultra gets here first, then I will run the kerf test on it. Thank you very much!
Hi Rich, nice idea for determining one's kerf. I have big fingers too and I would suggest laying a ruler or a smooth piece of flat stock across the length of the pieces to keep them from flipping so you can easily slide them to the left. I haven't tried this yet but it ought to work.......Jack
Thank you so very much for creating this video! I have new Longer Ray 5 10 watt with air assist that will arrive tomorrow I am told, next is finding 3mm plywood. 😁🛫
Thank you so much! I was able to download this tool and calculated my lasers kerf of 0.12mm, and now all my marquetry pieces fit together snugly. One other thing I did for the omtech 55W laser was adding thin shims to the underside of the knife blade bed that the honeycomb bed sits on and it's perfectly level now. I had about a 1.5mm slope from the left to the right of the bed.
Great! To level the bed, open the bottom compartment and loosen the tensioner screws so you can take the belt or chain off the uprights on all four corners. Now each of the upright screws on all 4 corners can be turned by hand until the bed is perfectly level. Replace the belt or chain, put pressure on the tensioner and fasten it back down.
Well you blew me right out of the park on this one. I think out all the videos I watched of yours, this rated above all. What a great information to have. Going to search on taking these lasers apart to clean. Thank you, Thank you. So good to see that some 'Old School Boys" are still around.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I’m relatively new to the laser world and my primary hobby is woodturning. The woodturning community is very open and sharing of information, ideas and procedures. Life is great.
thank you so much for all you do, for the community. this is a game changer for me I have been struggling so much with this topic in particular. greatly appreciate you and so happy I found your channel and links.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy thank YOU! I run a small woodworking business and I got a big contract with a company, but they needed laser engraving on most of the parts I make, so I’ve had to learn all about it in short time. I watch A LOT of videos and yours are truly top notch. You have a great, calm demeanor and it makes the content you put out really stand out from the pack. I’m going to try and remember to check out your 1 year anniversary video tonight!
I'm really glad I watched this vid. I came for info on kerf, but got a wealth of info along with it. Cause and effect are principles vital in all of life's learning; you are gifted in presentation. Now, if we can both mitigate shaky finger syndrome without swearing off coffee!
Thanks for this and the subsequent Kerf explanation videos, greatly appreciated. I have downloaded the Kerf file but checked it before and spotted that the version I downloaded had a 2mm Kerf value set against the cut layer , I think this should be zero for this reference piece, else it could skew readings significantly. All the best and thanks again.
Hi Rick, I've recently bouth my 2nd laser, a Sculpfun 33W. My first one was a 5.5W from Sculpfun. With that one, I didn't really had any kerf issues, but the 33W was challenging me more. Your tutorial fixed it in under 5 minutes! Thanks!
Hi Rich, great video and file! Thank you so much for sharing. I too struggled with my stubby fingers and the pieces tumbling about. I found that placing a scrap piece of plywood across them while sliding them to the left helped tremendously. Far and away the easiest tutorial on adjusting kerf offset that I found. My cuts are so much better now it's night and day!
Thank you and do keep this type of content coming. You are so clear and make it so straightforwards. I saw your lightburn 101 yesterday. Total common sense. I liked and subscribes. Today, yet another perfect tutorial. My laser is in the post, I can't wait to get going. I don't know what to make first.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I have a long list of things to make. I am looking to start with small experimental engraving and cutting, to learn how to. Then I have a few projects in mind. Ultimately, I would like to transfer some rc plane plans to lightburn which I believe can be tricky due to line thicknesses. I will certainly be on your forum. Currently, I am getting impatient because I left my laser in the basket for a couple of days and it went out of stock so I am now waiting for the restock to arrive. Luckily, I can view your vids and learn. I find your calm delivery very reassuring. Thank you for your content.
Nicely done Rich! Glad you snuck that bit in on how to clean your diode laser lens, I've been wondering how to do that properly. Looking forward to the full cleaning video when you get a chance!
New subscriber! I do not have a laser yet! Doing lots of homework and teaching my self first! I have a lot of ideas and don't know how to get it to a laser yet!
Yet another brilliant video from the master laser guru . love all the mistakes as it proves youre human after all. absolutely love this channel and Rich has helped me out soooooo many time. thanks Rich Dan ( across the pond )
Another informative video. You are my source for anything to do with lasers. Like your teaching style and I get most of what you’re saying. Just now starting out with a diode laser.
Thanks Rich, informative as always. Looking forward to the video on cleaning, I clean often but would like to see if there's a better/easier/more efficient way. Thanks again for putting out these videos, us newbies really appreciate it,
Thanks for the video. I'm learning lots between you abd Roger's Shop! When doing the kerf test, might I suggest to number the little pieces just in case you f#@$ up. Also, lay a ruler across the little pieces so they can't jump up.
Another great video and always waiting for the next one to come along you are a star and a very honest... need a few more guys like you around the world.... thanks rich
Thank you very much for the kerf and laser cleaning solution. Makes kerf so easy and daily maintenance. Can you guess what I'm going to order on Amazon? ;)
watching you deal with the little pieces moving around to get your measurement, if you use a flat metal scale (ruler) you may find it easier to push the pieces together and hold them tight with the scale as a weight or holder.
thanks again. Perhaps you can use masking tape to help hold the pieces down flat as you scoot them over. Scoot a few, tape those down, and so on until all 20 are scooted over and taped..... then measure? I am not at my machine to try it myself, but it should work (at least in my head!)
Thank you for the clear explanation for determining the kerf offset for the laser beam width. One confusing point at about 15:30 in the video you measure the offset from 20 cuts in mm then do the calculation and enter the kerf offset in Lightburn, but it shows the units are in inches? How did the 0.091 mm offset calculation convert to inches?
I wonder if the sequence in which the parts where cuts matter if so why not number them remove them from the laser bed and layout on a solid surface to then measure! just a thought I think the most important thing you said that hit home for me was explaining what direction to go with the offset numbers larger = tighter I agree with you about cleaning lens, I bought the solution you suggested. It reminds me of the battle of oil change places say they every 3000 miles. They sell oil. the automobile manufacture says 7500 miles they sell cars. I changed the oil at 5000 miles 😁🛫
Learn something every time I watch a video from your sir, thank you! Two questions. Fist can you take a piece of tape and tape all the cut pieces to the "frame" and move to a flat smooth surface so it's easier to get the pieces to the one side. May help fellow butter finger such as myself not have to fight sliding them to one side. Second, and this is gonna sound so dumb...... how do you wash the microfiber cloths? Just throw them in the washing machine? Curious if the detergent residue left would do the same thing you were mentioning about abrasive cleaners? Thanks again!
I wound up using a small piece of pane glass to cover the pieces. And my wife uses dawn liquid to wash my microfiber cloths. The white lens cloths I don't reuse. I think the packs of 24 on Amazon are about $6 and last a very long time.
Great video Rich! I recently purchased a Roly XW 30W and am cutting out some lanterns. I was getting a loose fit, so I made sure my kerf was set to 0, and went through the process of getting my new kerf value. By my calculations, I came up with 0.074, and entered that and rerun the job. It was still to loose so I used 0.0900, 0.1000, 0.1200, and 0.1300. They all seem to fit exactly the same. Not sure what is going on. I am using LightBurn version 1.7.01.
Here's a free template that might be easier William: boxes.hackerspace-bamberg.de/BurnTest?language=en Just fill out the thickness and leave all the rest default.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I just tried the Burn Test and found that 0.11mm is the perfect kerf setting to have the parts fit perfectly. I set that kerf under the red layer as you did in the video and rerun my test. The fit did not change. I am at a loss. Might it be because the diode laser is a rectangle and not a dot or a square? I am trying to make a coffin lantern that has pieces with fingers that have to fit in holes. I noticed the kerf does outside and not inside. To me, if you make a hole, kerf would make it larger. Is there a kerf setting for inside cuts?
Great info... but I'm confused why you divided by 2 after dividing by 20. There were 20 cuts and seems like dividing by 20 would give you the kerf of each slice?? Help me here please
Good information! Have you tried placing a clear piece of plexiglass over the cut out pieces to hold them down while you slide them together? have a great day!
Hey Rich, great video. I noticed that when you did your measurements and calculations, they were in mm but when you entered it in your settings, that was in inches. Does that make a difference?
You are correct, that was a mistake! I should have switched Lightburn to mm before doing the calculation! My actual kerf offset in inches is 0.00358. Unfortunately, I can't edit the video Dean.
Rich, I want to thank you for your channel. I am just beginning my laser journey and learn so much from watching you. I now have a better understanding of laser kerf, what it is, etc. But I am not sure how to use it. For example, if I cut out a puzzle piece, the piece will not fit tight in the hole it was cut out of even after adjusting the kerf offset, correct ? Do I cut the hole first, then adjust the Kerf offset outward and then cut the piece? I guess I don’t understand HOW and WHEN to use the kerf offset.
Really good stuff Rich. I'd like to see a c02 lens and mirror cleaning tutorial. I've use Zeiss lens cleaners for my diodes but haven't used my c02 enough yet (like not at all 😁). I figured out how to calculate kerf width on my own when I started making boxes, but your way is much simpler. Thanks for the video!
*THANKS TO kkhairat73 WHO SPOTTED MY BLUNDER!* The math is simply the NUMBER DIVIDED BY 20! (10 pieces x2) My brain wasn't working right! 🤪 The file downloads have been FIXED! I have the BEST VIEWERS! *In case you missed it, I had Lightburn set to INCHES instead of MM when I entered the kerf on my cut layer!* I forgot to switch back to mm! In inches, my kerf offset is 0.00358. *Additionally, I probably shouldn't have used the puzzle example!* This is only applicable on puzzles with double lines and double cuts! Kerf offset is mainly used for inlays. I'm going to do a better, less confusing video using inlays as an example instead soon.
Hello.. Super newbie here. Please do a video on cleaning diode lasers (specifically Creality CR Falcon 10 watt. Also, I have my laser focused, but I don't get the single clear laser "dot" that I expect. It like there is light surrounding the dot. I've cleaned the glass I see when I remove the air assist nozzle, but have no idea how to access lenses and/or mirrors. So, it it normal to have more than just the clear laser "dot"? And how do I access lenses/mirrors? I am very cautious. I don't want to inject a problem. Thanks for your videos. David.
Helpful concept. So, kerf offset must be lens- and focus-dependent. Question: Do I now I have to update all my cuts with my kerf offset each time, or does the software keep track of it and apply it to all my cuts going forward?
I am so thankful for your videos. I have been looking for someone who made figuring out kerf simple. Even following the directions on the file that had been updated. I got this and it is wayyyy off on cutting. My gap on the test board after sliding everything to the right on a 0 kerf setting was 3.3mm. I divided it by 20 and got 0.165. The video says to dived by two the file does not. so I did not. I sat my kerf at 0.165 but it put the inside frame line in the middle of all the horizontal cuts and the outside cut line enlarged with very rounded corners. Now I am unsure what to do.
i think you great by doing this! iam a disable vet, i just got a longer ray5 10watt laser. i need help by learning how to use my laser on lightburn, is there any way you can help me? is there anyway we can talk in private not on Facebook? i dont want the hole world know my business Mr Russell
I am a first time XTOOL laser owner and I have learned a tremendous amount from looking at your videos. Especially as a first time laser user not knowing how important it is to keep your lens clean. Obviously X tool knows this is well because they started sending an extra one with their lasers. It made me feel really intimidated to use it because I thought at first I was the only one who made this very interesting mistake.
Interesting video Rich. What's the advantages of those 20 cuts, over for example cutting 1inch square, measuring the actual square, to get the difference between the 1inch on the sotware and then actual piece. Then divide by 2 to get the kerf? Thanks
Personally, I just add the spot size of the laser to my project, but most folks don't have a microscope and crack ruler to measure the X & Y line width, which is why I made the video.
I'm a newbee, in fact, I just got my Atomstack M50 today and it's still in the box. My question is how do you wash the micro-fiber cleaning cloth for cleaning the diode lens. I would hate to take the effort to clean the lens with the recommended cleaner only to use the wrong method to clean the cloth itself. I hope this isn't a stupid question. I know your super busy and I really appreciate what your doing.
There are no stupid questions Jim! I use these cloths, amzn.to/3oJaady and I just clean them with regular water, no detergents. If they don't come clean, I use a bit of cleaning vinegar and rinse them well.
Great video, lots of tips. Never knew alcohol was abrasive... just ordered some Purity from you link. I think I did spot an error in your kerf calculations. When you took your calipers and did the actual measurement of 3.64, it was mm, but your setup in lightburn said inches. I am assuming that the calipers should have been in inches? Thanks again.
Yes Mark, my old brain makes lots of errors! 🤪 99% IPA is fine, but it's expensive! Most folks have 91-94% IPA in their cabinets, and *that is abrasive!*
The kerf and cleaning lenses are important information and I’m glad I learned from you. Thanks. I’m based in Australia and not sure what you mean by non abrasive spray for cleaning lenses… would sprayed distilled water be good?
Hi Rich, Amazing video. The way you explain things is absolutely brilliant. I don't know whether I should call it an old school way of explaining but it definitely is a perfect way :). I have a diode laser and as we all are aware that diode lasers have a rectangular spot and the CO2 lasers have a circular spot. Now the kerf for the CO2 will be equal on all around. However the diode laser will have a different kerf value for X and Y axis. Isn't it? If that is the case then should I run the test for both X & Y axis and then take a mean of that kerf value? Thanks in advance.
You are correct Vikram, however, I usually only take the Y into consideration since it's the larger of the two. If you need an exact kerf for some reason, you can angle your material to 45° on the work bed and then you'll have the same kerf on all 4 sides.
Hi Rich and thanks for this informative video. I do have one question. At the beginning, you state that you are working in imperial measures (in rather than mm) but what I don't understand is that you measure the 20-cut gap in mm (3.64mm) and then go through the math to come up with .091mm kerf setting. You then insert that number in the cut setting that clearly states that it is set to inches. How does this work? Am I misunderstanding something? Shouldn't you change your setting to accept mm or change the mm number to inches? Thanks
Great video tutorial on kerf, and thank you for sharing your knowledge... but I'm curious about the purity lens cleaner recommendation... I looked up the ingredients, and it is made with 2-propanol, which is basically iso acolohol... but within your inserted video text, you recommend no abbrassive and no acolohol cleaner should be used on lens...so I'm a little confused...were you referring to a certain type of alcohol that shouldn't be used?
After finally using the kerf assist I find that there is insufficient space to move the cuts to the left, I am using the sculpfun 9. Am I doing something wrong? I set the width to 130mm and the kerf to 0, but they won’t move to the left. Thanks for all the very informative video’s that you keep putting out.
First, let me say that this is a great video. You always get to the point without a lot of BS. Knowing that my OLM3 beam is a rectangle, I ran the test horizontally as in the video, then rotated it vertically. I did get two different results. Should I average those, or does it matter?
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I figured most lasers have a rectangular beam. I'm surprised this hasn't come up before. Will you test it again using both horizontal and vertical?
Thank you for this, going to give this a try. The math part, since it's communitive, 3.65/40 rather than 20 and again 2... just for those that want one step ;) Understanding for those that don't like math much but it does work... ;)
I don't see a direct link to the file and don't see a search bar on your website. I see from the comments people are finding it. Can I get a link to the download? Thank you.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Hi, Love your videos by the way, they have been great help getting me started with Lightburn! I donated $10 the other day to show my appreciation and purchased a download. It was just that the label for the kerf value was tagged (in) so I thought it wanted the value in inches. I know now that any such tagging can be ignored once you have set the system you wish to work in. Might be worth a mention.
Hello, could kerf be the reason my laser isn't cutting all the way through my material whether it be acrylic or wood? I normally have to do 2 passes & right now the kerf is set to 0. I have a 50w Omtech laser. Awesome videos by the way!
Super helpful video, thanks Rich. Would I be correct in thinking that this test is only applicable to the exact height of your lens focus from your material and also lens size? i.e. a 2" lens @ 6mms height from material? If the laser height was lower or higher then the kerf would be different, correct? Thanks
Hello, Sir! Thank you for your great videos! A lot of help in them. I have a couple of questions about the kerf issue. 1. My beam size is 0.08x0.06mm, does that mean that the kerf would be different on X and Y axes ? 2. Does the kerf go all the way into the shape or just half of it? Let's say we cut a square 1"*1" and the kerf is 1mm (just for simplicity matter). Will the square be reduced by 1mm or by 0.5mm on each side ? 3. Based on the size of the beam, would it be safe to assume that my kerf is somewhere between 0.08 and 0.06mm? I will of course run the test to get the real measurement, just interesting to know Thank you very much !
1) Yes 2) 0.5mm on each side 3) It would be 0.08 on the Y and 0.06 on the X, that is, if that is the actual kerf size. Manufacturers, with the exception of Roly Automation who actually tests their kerf size, exaggerate and just make up the size for marketing purposes. They know a lot of content makers focus on it.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuysorry I still have a question)) so if only 50% of a kerf eats up on a shape, why do we put the whole number into the setting ? E.g. the kerf is 1mm, shouldn't we put 0.5mm as the setting ? If we put 1mm, then our shape would be larger (or smaller) by 0.5mm all the way round... No? Or LB takes this into account and moves the beam in or out only 50% of the kerf size ?
Awesome video Rich! I really enjoy your videos and how simple you explain everything. Thanks so much. I am new to lasering, in fact I don't even have a laser machine yet because I wanted to make sure I purchase the right machine for what I want to do which is puzzles. My main concern was the Kerf size because as you mentioned some of the puzzle cutting videos that I watch on TH-cam show puzzles with very loose pieces, and I want them to be tighter. Now I know it is a setting for the cut and not necessarily a specific laser brand. I got your explanation about how to calculate the right Kerf size using the rectangle file but, how do you apply that to a puzzle rather that a rectangle? Thanks again for the video Rich.
Axel, I notice you didn't get a reply to your question. The kerf offset makes the puzzle or any piece you cut larger or smaller by the offset to give you a tighter or looser fit. Rich said how his offset on this particular laser, he would reduce by about .02 for a puzzle for kids. Hope this helps, though you have probably figured it out yourself already.
Your attitude of sharing knowledge and not gatekeeping it is admirable and has earned my subscription to your channel. (still waiting for my laser in the mail!)
Awesome! Thank you! And welcome to the obsession! 🤪
The message about the "community" is DEAD ON ACCURATE!! The
cnc/laser community is a great bunch of people!!
Yes they are! More like a family! 👍
Just wanted to give you a big THANKS 😊. I’m a new laser person, in fact I don’t even have it yet as it’s in the mail.
This is the type of informational video that is all needed information. Especially cleaning of the lenses. Thank you again.
Glad I could help!
You have made this process amazing! You are a wonderful human being! I will be purchasing downloads from you because you have shown me that it's our job to take care of each other. I am super excited to learn more from you. Thank you!!
Wow, thank you so much Heather!
😃Thanks! Your alway saving my bacon Buddy!!
Glad to help! Thanks so much for the support @flanikent 🎅🏽
Brother if your one thing consistently its heplful Thank You!@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy
More basic skills that give us an advantage over those that don't or won't watch your videos. Thank you Rich. 👍
Right on Kiwi!
Have you tried laying a streight edge on the top of the pieces b4 sliding to the left? You are such an amazing guy! Such an immense knowledge base. Love listening to your detailed and gentile speaking tone, your passion about this subject shines!
Thanks Barry! I personally do a ramp test and use a microscope and a crack ruler to get the kerf. I just did this video for people who don't have those tools. Some folks number them as well.
I wish I lived near you so I can give you a huge hug! You are simply amazing, smart, awesome instructor, and giving person. I have learned so much from you (you kept me off the ledge many times. I was ready to jump and give up). I love all your videos. I especially wanted to thank you when you said lenses cost $30-40 do you know a big well known laser company was charging me $100 for a replacement lens from cloudray! My air assist was not working properly and I kept burning out lenses. Which they couldnt help me get right my husband figured it out! They sold me 2 replacements for $200!!!
I wish I never bought this laser from these liars. Thank you for making me smart and have more confidence that there are nice real honest people out there! 🖤🖤🖤🖤
Wow! Awesome Debra; thanks so much for the comments!
Sorry for the loss of your friend. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I appreciate that, *thanks!*
YES a lens cleaning tutorial would be greatly appreciated Thank you for all you do!!
Coming soon Ken!
Lens, mirrors and linear guide I say :) that would be interesting :)
@@GS-dx5uq Yes! I'm going to do a full service video on maintenance as soon as I have time.
WOW! I just tried this on my SculpFun S6/Pro 5.5 w and the result came out with Kerf of 0.056. Now I will be able made some pencil boxes for my granddaughter's for school this year. That is if the SculpFun S30 22w ultra gets here first, then I will run the kerf test on it.
Thank you very much!
Glad it helped! And yes, the 5W lasers have the smallest kerf!
Hi Rich, nice idea for determining one's kerf. I have big fingers too and I would suggest laying a ruler or a smooth piece of flat stock across the length of the pieces to keep them from flipping so you can easily slide them to the left. I haven't tried this yet but it ought to work.......Jack
Great tip! Thanks Jack.
Thanks for this file, to avoid getting them mixed up I engraved 1 through to 19 on each piece
Whatever works for you Charles!
I don't think it matters if you mix them up, you are just measuring the space that is left.
Thank you so much for the information. I have watched hours upon hours of videos and read more. You fixed my kerf issue in one video. Thank you Sir.
Glad it helped Richard!
Thank you so very much for creating this video! I have new Longer Ray 5 10 watt with air assist that will arrive tomorrow I am told, next is finding 3mm plywood. 😁🛫
Glad it helped!
Thank you so much! I was able to download this tool and calculated my lasers kerf of 0.12mm, and now all my marquetry pieces fit together snugly. One other thing I did for the omtech 55W laser was adding thin shims to the underside of the knife blade bed that the honeycomb bed sits on and it's perfectly level now. I had about a 1.5mm slope from the left to the right of the bed.
Great! To level the bed, open the bottom compartment and loosen the tensioner screws so you can take the belt or chain off the uprights on all four corners. Now each of the upright screws on all 4 corners can be turned by hand until the bed is perfectly level. Replace the belt or chain, put pressure on the tensioner and fasten it back down.
Thanks! Love the channel
Glad you enjoy it Robert! Thanks so much for the support!
Thanks!
Appreciate the Support!
Ran the file worked great, i added numbers to each cut piece to re arrange when they launched out
Great idea Mike!
Thanks!
Welcome! Thank you for the support!
Great video as always, Rich. Not only have I learnt how to handle kerf, I even know what it is!!!!!
Right on Alf! 👍
Well you blew me right out of the park on this one. I think out all the videos I watched of yours, this rated above all. What a great information to have. Going to search on taking these lasers apart to clean. Thank you, Thank you. So good to see that some 'Old School Boys" are still around.
Glad you enjoyed it Joe!
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I’m relatively new to the laser world and my primary hobby is woodturning. The woodturning community is very open and sharing of information, ideas and procedures. Life is great.
Welcome aboard!
thank you so much for all you do, for the community. this is a game changer for me I have been struggling so much with this topic in particular. greatly appreciate you and so happy I found your channel and links.
Happy to help James!
This is quickly becoming my favorite laser channel! Thanks for putting out all of this great information!
Wow, thanks Michael! Much appreciated!
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy thank YOU! I run a small woodworking business and I got a big contract with a company, but they needed laser engraving on most of the parts I make, so I’ve had to learn all about it in short time. I watch A LOT of videos and yours are truly top notch. You have a great, calm demeanor and it makes the content you put out really stand out from the pack. I’m going to try and remember to check out your 1 year anniversary video tonight!
i'm new on your channel , and i learn alot from you. like most people say in here ,you are a wonderfull man. thank you for lots of video's !!!
You are very welcome!
I'm really glad I watched this vid. I came for info on kerf, but got a wealth of info along with it. Cause and effect are principles vital in all of life's learning; you are gifted in presentation. Now, if we can both mitigate shaky finger syndrome without swearing off coffee!
Thanks for the comment Peter!!
Thanks for this and the subsequent Kerf explanation videos, greatly appreciated. I have downloaded the Kerf file but checked it before and spotted that the version I downloaded had a 2mm Kerf value set against the cut layer , I think this should be zero for this reference piece, else it could skew readings significantly. All the best and thanks again.
Thanks for the heads up!
Hi Rick, I've recently bouth my 2nd laser, a Sculpfun 33W. My first one was a 5.5W from Sculpfun. With that one, I didn't really had any kerf issues, but the 33W was challenging me more. Your tutorial fixed it in under 5 minutes! Thanks!
Very cool!
Might wanna add a number engraving to each piece then you could take it out to the table. Thank you for this video your amazing
It doesn't matter, they're all the same size.
Hi Rich, great video and file! Thank you so much for sharing. I too struggled with my stubby fingers and the pieces tumbling about. I found that placing a scrap piece of plywood across them while sliding them to the left helped tremendously. Far and away the easiest tutorial on adjusting kerf offset that I found. My cuts are so much better now it's night and day!
Glad to hear it David!
Thank you and do keep this type of content coming. You are so clear and make it so straightforwards. I saw your lightburn 101 yesterday. Total common sense. I liked and subscribes. Today, yet another perfect tutorial. My laser is in the post, I can't wait to get going. I don't know what to make first.
I have lots of free projects on my forum Paul!
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I have a long list of things to make. I am looking to start with small experimental engraving and cutting, to learn how to. Then I have a few projects in mind. Ultimately, I would like to transfer some rc plane plans to lightburn which I believe can be tricky due to line thicknesses. I will certainly be on your forum. Currently, I am getting impatient because I left my laser in the basket for a couple of days and it went out of stock so I am now waiting for the restock to arrive. Luckily, I can view your vids and learn. I find your calm delivery very reassuring. Thank you for your content.
Great video. I had heard the term KERF, but had to look it up. lol Love your videos. I'm hooked and have so many things to do now. lol
Awesome! Thank you!
Nicely done Rich! Glad you snuck that bit in on how to clean your diode laser lens, I've been wondering how to do that properly. Looking forward to the full cleaning video when you get a chance!
Awesome Ben! I'll get to it soon I hope! 🤪
Thanks!
Thank you Sir! I appreciate the support!
New subscriber! I do not have a laser yet! Doing lots of homework and teaching my self first! I have a lot of ideas and don't know how to get it to a laser yet!
Welcome aboard! Or I should say, welcome to the obsession! 🤪
Yet another brilliant video from the master laser guru . love all the mistakes as it proves youre human after all.
absolutely love this channel and Rich has helped me out soooooo many time. thanks Rich
Dan ( across the pond )
Thanks again Dan!
Another informative video. You are my source for anything to do with lasers. Like your teaching style and I get most of what you’re saying. Just now starting out with a diode laser.
Awesome John! Thanks for watching!
Thanks Rich, informative as always. Looking forward to the video on cleaning, I clean often but would like to see if there's a better/easier/more efficient way. Thanks again for putting out these videos, us newbies really appreciate it,
Thanks for watching Peggy!
Thanks for the video. I'm learning lots between you abd Roger's Shop! When doing the kerf test, might I suggest to number the little pieces just in case you f#@$ up. Also, lay a ruler across the little pieces so they can't jump up.
They don't need numbers Denis, since they're all the same.
Thank you for another great video, I am learning a lot from you I also purchased the 8 layer cross, just waiing for the wood to come in.
Sounds great Dan! Practice makes perfect! You can practice with cardboard.
Thanks, if you hold a ruler over the center it will probably be easier to slide the parts, cheers from Norway :)
Thanks for the idea!
Another great video and always waiting for the next one to come along you are a star and a very honest... need a few more guys like you around the world.... thanks rich
Thank you Sir, much appreciated!
Thank you very much for the kerf and laser cleaning solution. Makes kerf so easy and daily maintenance. Can you guess what I'm going to order on Amazon? ;)
Have fun with it!
watching you deal with the little pieces moving around to get your measurement, if you use a flat metal scale (ruler) you may find it easier to push the pieces together and hold them tight with the scale as a weight or holder.
Yeah, thanks for the tip. Anything on top works better than nothing! 🤪
thanks again.
Perhaps you can use masking tape to help hold the pieces down flat as you scoot them over. Scoot a few, tape those down, and so on until all 20 are scooted over and taped..... then measure?
I am not at my machine to try it myself, but it should work (at least in my head!)
One of my viewers said cover it with cardboard... works!
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Thats even better.. and easier!
Thank you for the clear explanation for determining the kerf offset for the laser beam width. One confusing point at about 15:30 in the video you measure the offset from 20 cuts in mm then do the calculation and enter the kerf offset in Lightburn, but it shows the units are in inches? How did the 0.091 mm offset calculation convert to inches?
That was a mistake on my part Charles, sorry!
I wonder if the sequence in which the parts where cuts matter if so why not number them remove them from the laser bed and layout on a solid surface to then measure! just a thought
I think the most important thing you said that hit home for me was explaining what direction to go with the offset numbers larger = tighter
I agree with you about cleaning lens, I bought the solution you suggested. It reminds me of the battle of oil change places say they every 3000 miles. They sell oil. the automobile manufacture says 7500 miles they sell cars. I changed the oil at 5000 miles 😁🛫
In this case we half the manufacturer recommendations.
Thanks Rich for the file! Great information, appreciate it.
You bet Allen, thanks for watching!
Thanks for this tutorial, it's a thumbs-up from over the pond👍
Glad it helped David!
Learn something every time I watch a video from your sir, thank you! Two questions. Fist can you take a piece of tape and tape all the cut pieces to the "frame" and move to a flat smooth surface so it's easier to get the pieces to the one side. May help fellow butter finger such as myself not have to fight sliding them to one side. Second, and this is gonna sound so dumb...... how do you wash the microfiber cloths? Just throw them in the washing machine? Curious if the detergent residue left would do the same thing you were mentioning about abrasive cleaners? Thanks again!
I wound up using a small piece of pane glass to cover the pieces. And my wife uses dawn liquid to wash my microfiber cloths. The white lens cloths I don't reuse. I think the packs of 24 on Amazon are about $6 and last a very long time.
Great video Rich! I recently purchased a Roly XW 30W and am cutting out some lanterns. I was getting a loose fit, so I made sure my kerf was set to 0, and went through the process of getting my new kerf value. By my calculations, I came up with 0.074, and entered that and rerun the job. It was still to loose so I used 0.0900, 0.1000, 0.1200, and 0.1300. They all seem to fit exactly the same. Not sure what is going on. I am using LightBurn version 1.7.01.
Here's a free template that might be easier William:
boxes.hackerspace-bamberg.de/BurnTest?language=en
Just fill out the thickness and leave all the rest default.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Thanks Rich, I will give it a try.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I just tried the Burn Test and found that 0.11mm is the perfect kerf setting to have the parts fit perfectly. I set that kerf under the red layer as you did in the video and rerun my test. The fit did not change. I am at a loss. Might it be because the diode laser is a rectangle and not a dot or a square? I am trying to make a coffin lantern that has pieces with fingers that have to fit in holes. I noticed the kerf does outside and not inside. To me, if you make a hole, kerf would make it larger. Is there a kerf setting for inside cuts?
No William, but you might want to turn your material 45° on the bed to compensate for the diagonal kerf.
thank you, i've learned so much from your vids
Glad you like them!
Great info... but I'm confused why you divided by 2 after dividing by 20. There were 20 cuts and seems like dividing by 20 would give you the kerf of each slice?? Help me here please
It was an error in post Jeff. Take off the /2.
Great video Rich!, and with the bonus lens cleaning tip also!
Thanks Chuck! Glad you enjoyed it!
Good information! Have you tried placing a clear piece of plexiglass over the cut out pieces to hold them down while you slide them together? have a great day!
I ended up using a really thin piece of plate glass.
Awesome like always thank you. If you etch a number in the pieces that way if they get it of place you know exactly where they go.
I see people that do that, but I don't understand the logic behind it Roscoe. They're all going to have the same kerf.
Hey Rich, great video.
I noticed that when you did your measurements and calculations, they were in mm but when you entered it in your settings, that was in inches. Does that make a difference?
You are correct, that was a mistake! I should have switched Lightburn to mm before doing the calculation! My actual kerf offset in inches is 0.00358. Unfortunately, I can't edit the video Dean.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuygreat, thank you for clearing that up
Rich, I want to thank you for your channel. I am just beginning my laser journey and learn so much from watching you. I now have a better understanding of laser kerf, what it is, etc. But I am not sure how to use it. For example, if I cut out a puzzle piece, the piece will not fit tight in the hole it was cut out of even after adjusting the kerf offset, correct ? Do I cut the hole first, then adjust the Kerf offset outward and then cut the piece? I guess I don’t understand HOW and WHEN to use the kerf offset.
It takes some testing, like in the video. You adjust the kerf for a tighter or looser fit, either way.
Really good stuff Rich. I'd like to see a c02 lens and mirror cleaning tutorial. I've use Zeiss lens cleaners for my diodes but haven't used my c02 enough yet (like not at all 😁). I figured out how to calculate kerf width on my own when I started making boxes, but your way is much simpler. Thanks for the video!
Glad you liked it George! I'll be doing the lens cleaning video when I get time.
*THANKS TO kkhairat73 WHO SPOTTED MY BLUNDER!* The math is simply the NUMBER DIVIDED BY 20! (10 pieces x2) My brain wasn't working right! 🤪 The file downloads have been FIXED! I have the BEST VIEWERS! *In case you missed it, I had Lightburn set to INCHES instead of MM when I entered the kerf on my cut layer!* I forgot to switch back to mm! In inches, my kerf offset is 0.00358. *Additionally, I probably shouldn't have used the puzzle example!* This is only applicable on puzzles with double lines and double cuts! Kerf offset is mainly used for inlays. I'm going to do a better, less confusing video using inlays as an example instead soon.
LOL just answered to that and saw your post! Grea honesty.
Hello.. Super newbie here.
Please do a video on cleaning diode lasers (specifically Creality CR Falcon 10 watt.
Also, I have my laser focused, but I don't get the single clear laser "dot" that I expect. It like there is light surrounding the dot.
I've cleaned the glass I see when I remove the air assist nozzle, but have no idea how to access lenses and/or mirrors.
So, it it normal to have more than just the clear laser "dot"?
And how do I access lenses/mirrors?
I am very cautious. I don't want to inject a problem.
Thanks for your videos.
David.
You don't have mirrors David; that's a Co2. I access the lens directly with a long Q-tip wrapped in a microfiber cloth.
Great video once again! A video on types of lens would be awesome if you're ever bored lol
Thanks for the idea David!
Helpful concept. So, kerf offset must be lens- and focus-dependent. Question: Do I now I have to update all my cuts with my kerf offset each time, or does the software keep track of it and apply it to all my cuts going forward?
Nope, just once.
This is really helpful, thanks, liked and subbed :)
Thanks for the sub!
I am so thankful for your videos. I have been looking for someone who made figuring out kerf simple. Even following the directions on the file that had been updated. I got this and it is wayyyy off on cutting. My gap on the test board after sliding everything to the right on a 0 kerf setting was 3.3mm. I divided it by 20 and got 0.165. The video says to dived by two the file does not. so I did not. I sat my kerf at 0.165 but it put the inside frame line in the middle of all the horizontal cuts and the outside cut line enlarged with very rounded corners. Now I am unsure what to do.
Try posting on my free forums. lahobbyguy.com/bb
Fantastic video. Very detailed and honest. Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it Kari!
i think you great by doing this! iam a disable vet, i just got a longer ray5 10watt laser. i need help by learning how to use my laser on lightburn, is there any way you can help me? is there anyway we can talk in private not on Facebook? i dont want the hole world know my business Mr Russell
Try this video John: th-cam.com/video/T8DZLl1O0xo/w-d-xo.html
Could you use a piece of masking/transfer paper to lift the cut work out if the bed and measure in the bench?
Yeah, there are lots of ways to get around it.
Great video, maybe lay a piece of acrylic or board over the cut pieces to keep them from jumping up, and then measure the gap ???
Great idea Stephen, thanks!
Another great video Rick as always. I ready need to clear my lens and mirrors haha thank you. 👍
Every day George! 👍
Thank you ! You have been so much help to me.
I'm so glad Sandy!
You are most excellent LHG!!!!!!
Wow! Thank you so much! I appreciate the comment!
I am a first time XTOOL laser owner and I have learned a tremendous amount from looking at your videos. Especially as a first time laser user not knowing how important it is to keep your lens clean. Obviously X tool knows this is well because they started sending an extra one with their lasers. It made me feel really intimidated to use it because I thought at first I was the only one who made this very interesting mistake.
Hey,
Are you still going to do a full service video on maintenance?
It's on the list Mark!
Great video Rich! Would you then need to do another test to adjust the cutting parameters again due to higher efficiency?
Yes David. Glad you pointed it out.
Interesting video Rich.
What's the advantages of those 20 cuts, over for example cutting 1inch square, measuring the actual square, to get the difference between the 1inch on the sotware and then actual piece.
Then divide by 2 to get the kerf?
Thanks
I don't actually use this, but if I did that's how I would do it. I usually just add my spot size to the project size and that works like a charm.
So to find your spot size, do you use the 1inch method or you do it differently
Personally, I just add the spot size of the laser to my project, but most folks don't have a microscope and crack ruler to measure the X & Y line width, which is why I made the video.
I'm a newbee, in fact, I just got my Atomstack M50 today and it's still in the box. My question is how do you wash the micro-fiber cleaning cloth for cleaning the diode lens. I would hate to take the effort to clean the lens with the recommended cleaner only to use the wrong method to clean the cloth itself. I hope this isn't a stupid question. I know your super busy and I really appreciate what your doing.
There are no stupid questions Jim! I use these cloths, amzn.to/3oJaady and I just clean them with regular water, no detergents. If they don't come clean, I use a bit of cleaning vinegar and rinse them well.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Thank you.
Great video, lots of tips. Never knew alcohol was abrasive... just ordered some Purity from you link.
I think I did spot an error in your kerf calculations. When you took your calipers and did the actual measurement of 3.64, it was mm, but your setup in lightburn said inches. I am assuming that the calipers should have been in inches? Thanks again.
Yes Mark, my old brain makes lots of errors! 🤪 99% IPA is fine, but it's expensive! Most folks have 91-94% IPA in their cabinets, and *that is abrasive!*
The kerf and cleaning lenses are important information and I’m glad I learned from you. Thanks. I’m based in Australia and not sure what you mean by non abrasive spray for cleaning lenses… would sprayed distilled water be good?
99% IPA and a microfiber cloth will work well.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy thank you... 99% IPA, do you mean isopropyl alcohol? but you said not to use alcohol in your video?
Hi Rich, Amazing video. The way you explain things is absolutely brilliant. I don't know whether I should call it an old school way of explaining but it definitely is a perfect way :).
I have a diode laser and as we all are aware that diode lasers have a rectangular spot and the CO2 lasers have a circular spot. Now the kerf for the CO2 will be equal on all around. However the diode laser will have a different kerf value for X and Y axis. Isn't it? If that is the case then should I run the test for both X & Y axis and then take a mean of that kerf value?
Thanks in advance.
You are correct Vikram, however, I usually only take the Y into consideration since it's the larger of the two. If you need an exact kerf for some reason, you can angle your material to 45° on the work bed and then you'll have the same kerf on all 4 sides.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Actually, job done is half the time. Now that is what I call experience 😀
Hi Rich and thanks for this informative video. I do have one question. At the beginning, you state that you are working in imperial measures (in rather than mm) but what I don't understand is that you measure the 20-cut gap in mm (3.64mm) and then go through the math to come up with .091mm kerf setting. You then insert that number in the cut setting that clearly states that it is set to inches. How does this work? Am I misunderstanding something? Shouldn't you change your setting to accept mm or change the mm number to inches? Thanks
Yes Elliot, that was a mistake in the video. YT doesn't allow the videos to be edited.
So, should I assume we either convert the 0.91 mm to inches (.0036 in) or change the settings to metric?@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy
Either way works.
Great video tutorial on kerf, and thank you for sharing your knowledge...
but I'm curious about the purity lens cleaner recommendation... I looked up the ingredients, and it is made with 2-propanol, which is basically iso acolohol... but within your inserted video text, you recommend no abbrassive and no acolohol cleaner should be used on lens...so I'm a little confused...were you referring to a certain type of alcohol that shouldn't be used?
99% IPA is okay, but it's not what most people have Zanna. Most folks have 91-94 IPA.
After finally using the kerf assist I find that there is insufficient space to move the cuts to the left, I am using the sculpfun 9. Am I doing something wrong? I set the width to 130mm and the kerf to 0, but they won’t move to the left. Thanks for all the very informative video’s that you keep putting out.
I don't know, I can't see you settings in a comment. You can head over to the forum and get answers there: lahobbyguy.com/bb
Thanks Rich very helpful.
Happy to help Dave!
First, let me say that this is a great video. You always get to the point without a lot of BS.
Knowing that my OLM3 beam is a rectangle, I ran the test horizontally as in the video, then rotated it vertically. I did get two different results. Should I average those, or does it matter?
Hmm... I don't know! Sounds like a good idea Claude!
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy I figured most lasers have a rectangular beam. I'm surprised this hasn't come up before. Will you test it again using both horizontal and vertical?
No, But I'll mention it in the future.
Thank you for this, going to give this a try. The math part, since it's communitive, 3.65/40 rather than 20 and again 2... just for those that want one step ;)
Understanding for those that don't like math much but it does work... ;)
Fantastic! Thanks for the tip!
Hi Rich, I cannot find the link for the lens cleaner, has it been removed or do I need to clean my glasses!
Purity is the cleaner I use: amzn.to/3tsxdeM But 99% IPA works just as well.
Thanks Rich. Do you recommend running a separate test for each different material/thickness?
Yes, absolutely Steve.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Okay. FYI, I ran the cut test on 6mm birch plywood and 3mm aspen (not plywood) and got the identical result. xTool D1 Pro 20W.
Well I’m going to try this
Have fun!
I love what you do, thank you!
Glad you enjoy it Frank!
Rich, thanks for all you do to help us beginners. There is so much to learn. Do you get your woods locally, or is there an online source you use?
Both Rob! Locally, Amazon & Ocooch Hardwoods online.
I don't see a direct link to the file and don't see a search bar on your website. I see from the comments people are finding it. Can I get a link to the download? Thank you.
There is a search feature on both the blog and the forum.
I think your caliper read out mm but the kerf value is to be entered in inches looking at the label. Where am I missing something?
Lightburn works in both inches and mm.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Hi, Love your videos by the way, they have been great help getting me started with Lightburn! I donated $10 the other day to show my appreciation and purchased a download. It was just that the label for the kerf value was tagged (in) so I thought it wanted the value in inches. I know now that any such tagging can be ignored once you have set the system you wish to work in. Might be worth a mention.
Thanks so much for the support!
Hello, could kerf be the reason my laser isn't cutting all the way through my material whether it be acrylic or wood? I normally have to do 2 passes & right now the kerf is set to 0. I have a 50w Omtech laser. Awesome videos by the way!
No, it's likely your focus is off.
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Thanks! Do you offer 1on1 classes? If so where can I sign up?
Super helpful video, thanks Rich. Would I be correct in thinking that this test is only applicable to the exact height of your lens focus from your material and also lens size? i.e. a 2" lens @ 6mms height from material?
If the laser height was lower or higher then the kerf would be different, correct?
Thanks
Yes, you should do this at the perfect focal height.
Hello, Sir! Thank you for your great videos! A lot of help in them. I have a couple of questions about the kerf issue.
1. My beam size is 0.08x0.06mm, does that mean that the kerf would be different on X and Y axes ?
2. Does the kerf go all the way into the shape or just half of it? Let's say we cut a square 1"*1" and the kerf is 1mm (just for simplicity matter). Will the square be reduced by 1mm or by 0.5mm on each side ?
3. Based on the size of the beam, would it be safe to assume that my kerf is somewhere between 0.08 and 0.06mm? I will of course run the test to get the real measurement, just interesting to know
Thank you very much !
1) Yes
2) 0.5mm on each side
3) It would be 0.08 on the Y and 0.06 on the X, that is, if that is the actual kerf size. Manufacturers, with the exception of Roly Automation who actually tests their kerf size, exaggerate and just make up the size for marketing purposes. They know a lot of content makers focus on it.
Thank you very much !@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuysorry I still have a question)) so if only 50% of a kerf eats up on a shape, why do we put the whole number into the setting ? E.g. the kerf is 1mm, shouldn't we put 0.5mm as the setting ? If we put 1mm, then our shape would be larger (or smaller) by 0.5mm all the way round... No? Or LB takes this into account and moves the beam in or out only 50% of the kerf size ?
No Peter, I'm not concerned with a 0.5mm tolerance.
Awesome video Rich! I really enjoy your videos and how simple you explain everything. Thanks so much. I am new to lasering, in fact I don't even have a laser machine yet because I wanted to make sure I purchase the right machine for what I want to do which is puzzles. My main concern was the Kerf size because as you mentioned some of the puzzle cutting videos that I watch on TH-cam show puzzles with very loose pieces, and I want them to be tighter. Now I know it is a setting for the cut and not necessarily a specific laser brand. I got your explanation about how to calculate the right Kerf size using the rectangle file but, how do you apply that to a puzzle rather that a rectangle? Thanks again for the video Rich.
Glad you liked it Axel! Thanks!
Axel, I notice you didn't get a reply to your question. The kerf offset makes the puzzle or any piece you cut larger or smaller by the offset to give you a tighter or looser fit. Rich said how his offset on this particular laser, he would reduce by about .02 for a puzzle for kids. Hope this helps, though you have probably figured it out yourself already.
Thank You Rich!
My pleasure Herb!
Nice video. Thanks for the time and effort to produce this and the other videos you do. 👍👍
Most welcome Douglass!
Brilliant Rich. thank you. Well said.
Thanks Rob! Appreciate it!
@@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy Not sure if I'm being dense, diode question- would a vertical cut be a different kerf to a horizontal one? thanks Rich
Yes it could be, depending on your laser. The kerf offset will still work Rob.