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Laser Cutting @lemm.ee Sphks @lemmy.dbzer0.com

[Help] Small details

I have a drawing with small details like hairs.
I try to etch it on cork.
I use LaserGRBL, with speed 2000mm/min, and 0.75W of power.

If I use the "Line To Line" option, the hairs are too small, and individual lines will not be drawn.

If I use the "Vectorize" option :

  • without "Adaptive quality", the small details are removed.
  • with "Adaptative quality", the small details are finaly there ! But ... the laser try to draw the edges of each hair, burning each hair twice. The result is a big burnt blob instead of individual fine lines.

Do you know how to solve this issue ?
Is there a tool to approximate fine details with unique strokes ? Is this possible in Inkscape for example ?

Thanks a lot.

10
10 comments

  • Can you share a picture of the source image you are looking to etch?

    Also what type of machine do you use?

    Do you run into the same issue if you etch on to plywood?

    I am not a huge fan of burning on cork because of the charring/smell issues. I have had luck turning the air assist up higher to help some.

    I use Lightburn so not sure how this translates, but do you have a dither or grayscale option?

    This might be helpful https://awesome.tech/k40-laser-engraving/

    • Here is a screenshot of the issue.
      At the center of the picture, you can see that fine lines are two lines.

      I have not tried on plywood, but the issue will be the same, won't it ?
      I... don't know the model of the machine. It's a 10W laser diode on rails. There are different "types" of machines ?
      I love burning on cork. I get great results compared to plywood. Plywood is great to cut it.

      There is a dithering algorithm on LaserGRBL, but it gives the same results as line to line engraving. The laser is not powerfull enough when engraving fine lines.

      Now that I think of it, I have to try another option. Convert my picture into a vectorized picture through Inkscape. Then convert it to a raster picture. Then using LaserGRBL to engrave it line to line. I will try this when I have access to the machine.

      Yet, I am still curious about softwares or ways to dynamically convert pictures into smart engraving path. Smarter than Laser GRBL.

      • Is it both vector and raster engraving? Your description of "adaptive quality" sounds like that is what is happening. Can your software toggle off the vector engraving and leave only raster?

        I use a CO2 laser, which has some different cutting properties than a diod laser, so I don't have much experience here, but I think for something with fine detail like that you'd be best to try grayscale

        I found this guide for a diod laser so see if that works. https://endurancelasers.com/laser-engraving-of-halftones-how-to-print-beautiful-photos/

        The other option I have done when things are just too detailed is go into inkcape and simplify the line work manually.

10 comments