Fiber (Galvo) Lasers
      Back to home
      1. SA Laser Knowledge Base
      2. Fiber (Galvo) Lasers

      Finding Optimal Focus for Your Galvo Fiber Laser

      This article explores the process of determining the optimal focal length for your Galvo fiber laser, a crucial step to achieve the best results in your engraving projects.

      Part 1: Step-by-Step for Focusing on a Flat Surface

      1. Raise the Laser Head

        • Raise your Galvo head as high as it will reasonably go.

      2. Draw a Square or Rectangle

        • Click on the rectangle tool in the left-hand toolbar.
        • Click and drag on the workspace to draw a square or rectangle shape. Hold the Shift key to ensure it remains a perfect square or rectangle.

      3. Set the Fill Mode

        • With the square or rectangle selected, go to the Cuts and Layers window on the right side of the screen.
        • Double-click the layer to open the cut settings window.
        • Set your settings to 5 speed, 100 power, and 20 frequency. Set the mode drop-down menu to Fill, then click OK.

      4. Frame and Test

        • Click Frame, then toggle the Run Continuously option.
        • Ensure that your red laser shows on the test piece and is not hanging off any edge.
        • Size the square to fit on your test material.
        • Continue lowering the laser head slowly until the engraving noise reaches its maximum loudness and you see the burn color turn to blue.
        • Make a note of the laser's current position on the tower's measurement marks.
        • Lower the head further until the blue color fades to orange, then raise it back up until the laser light is blue again.
        • Make a note of the laser's current position on the tower's measurement marks.

      5. Calculate the Optimal Focus

        • You now have two measurement values. Split the difference between these two values and raise the laser head to that position.
        • Your flat surface is now focused.

      Part 2: Measuring Focal Length

      1. Measure the Focal Length

        • Using an acrylic ruler, measure from the engraving surface to the bottom lip of the lens.
        • If your acrylic ruler has a lip, measure the offset with calipers to calculate the accurate focal length.

      2. Create a Focus Tool

        • Creating a focus tool, such as a marked dowel or laser-cut acrylic focusing tool, can make it easier to adjust the laser when working with objects of different sizes.

      Conclusion

      You have learned how to find the focal point for your laser engraving by using crisp outlines, audio cues, and measuring techniques. By fine-tuning the focus and creating a focusing tool, you can achieve optimal focus and streamline your workflow. Happy engraving!