Fiber (Galvo) Lasers
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      2. Fiber (Galvo) Lasers

      Engraving with Rotary Device in LightBurn

      Introduction

      This article will guide you through the process of engraving using the rotary device in LightBurn. This technique is useful for engraving on rounded items. The instructions are based on the rotary being positioned on the left side of the laser with the Y-axis wrapped around the object. Adjustments may be needed if positioning the rotary in another direction.

      Step-by-Step Guide

      Step 1: Design Size, Orientation, and Rotary Alignment

      1. Determine the size your graphic should be on your workpiece. Size your graphic accordingly to the workpiece and orient it as needed. Rotate your graphic 90° counterclockwise to orient it properly on your workpiece. The height of the graphic should be equal to the circumference of the object if doing a full wrap.
      2. Place your workpiece in the rotary chuck and set your focus. Click the Rectangle tool and draw a long, skinny rectangle along the x-axis. Press 'P' on the keyboard to center the rectangle to the workspace. Select your graphic and press 'P' to center it as well. Click 'Frame' and select the 'Bounds' option to align your workpiece with the skinny rectangle centered at the top. Ensure that the skinny rectangle is running parallel to your workpiece. Once centered, delete the rectangle from your workpiece.

      Step 2: Rotary Setup

      1. Click the 'Rotary Setup' button or go to the 'Laser Tools' menu and select 'Rotary Setup'.
      2. In the Rotary Setup window, select the 'Chuck' option. Enable the 'Enable Rotary' slider switch, the 'Reverse Rotary Direction' switch, and the 'Return to Starting Point' switch. Set the 'Split Size' to 10% of your part diameter. Enter the object diameter or circumference in the corresponding field.
      3. The first time you open LightBurn, your steps per rotation will default to 10,000. Our rotary is set to 12,800 steps per rotation, so change the value manually the first time. LightBurn stores this information, so you'll only need to enter steps per rotation once. Click 'OK' to finalize the setup.
      4. Click 'Frame' to ensure your engraving starts where you want it. When ready, click 'Start'.

      Checking Rotation

      1. After clicking 'Start', the rotary marking window will appear. If using inches, enter your split size without converting to millimeters.
      2. Check if your object is rotating evenly by entering a value in the text box above the 'Go to Zero' button and clicking the 'Jog' button in either direction. Jog in the opposite direction to return to your original starting point if needed.
      3. If the object is not rotating evenly, open the rotary jaws and re-clamp the item evenly. Jog the rotary again to recheck the rotation.

      Conclusion

      You have successfully learned how to engrave with a rotary device using LightBurn software for the galvo fiber laser designed for San Antonio lasers. This technique allows you to create intricate engravings on rounded objects. For further questions or assistance, refer to the LightBurn documentation or contact support for your specific laser system. Happy laser engraving!