Five Essential Laser Cutter Accessories

Five Essential Laser Cutter Accessories

Laser cutters and engravers are incredibly versatile machines, capable of performing a wide array of tasks and functions. Many users are satisfied with their laser cutters right out of the box, often overlooking the essential accessories that can enhance their CO2 laser's capabilities and project outcomes.

Essential Laser Cutter Accessories

Here are five crucial laser cutter accessories that can elevate your experience with a laser machine like the Muse Series or P-Series CO2 laser cutter and engraver.

1. Focus Lenses

A variety of focus lenses are available, each tailored for different cutting thicknesses or engraving details. These essential accessories range from lenses for cutting thick materials, such as foam, to precision lenses for intricate details below a 6pt font.

• 1.5” Focus Lens Kit: Ideal for fine text and detailed engravings, capable of engraving much finer details than other lenses.
• 2.0” Focus Lens Kit: The standard, versatile lens that comes with the machine, suitable for a range of tasks.
• 2.5” Focus Lens Kit: Capable of cutting slightly thicker materials while still handling some detailed engravings.
• 5.0” Focus Lens Kit: Best for cutting thick, soft materials like foam.

Different focus lenses can significantly expand the creative possibilities with various materials on your CO2 laser.

1. Rotary Attachment

A rotary attachment is an essential accessory that allows laser engraving on curved objects. It enables the engraving of items like bottles, glasses, and rolling pins by attaching to the “y-drive” of the laser cutter, ensuring precise rotation for perfect engraving.

Common uses include laser glass etching and tumbler etching, making great gifts or promotional items.

1. Riser

Risers are vital laser cutter accessories that add height to the laser machine, accommodating taller materials. They are particularly useful when used with rotaries for engraving objects like bottles and glasses. While some CO2 lasers like the PS20 have built-in additional Z-height, others like the Muse Core require risers.

Newer risers feature passthroughs in the front and back, allowing the engraving and cutting of longer materials that wouldn’t fit within the standard 20"x12" workspace. Note that a 5” focus lens is necessary to use the passthrough on the Muse Core and Muse 3D.

1. Fume Extractor

Fume extractors are essential for workshops without easy access to an outside window or built-in exhaust port. They use HEPA filters to trap fumes and particles, making them indispensable for setups in offices without outside access.

A particle pre-filter can be installed between the laser engraver and the fume extractor, catching heavier dust and smoke particles before they reach the extractor, thereby extending the lifespan of the filter sets.

1. Water Chiller

All CO2 laser tubes require cooling during operation. While a simple water pump system may suffice, maintaining a constant cool water temperature is better for the laser tube's longevity. Water chillers are crucial for this purpose.

• Standard Radiator Water Chiller (CW-3000): Uses a radiator and fan system to cool the water, similar to the Muse Coolbox but larger.
• Refrigerated Water Chiller (CW-5000): Cools water via refrigerated tubes, ideal for extended use in hot, humid environments like a non-climate-controlled garage or workshop.

These accessories can significantly enhance the performance and versatility of your CO2 laser cutter and engraver.