ImagesMagUK_December_2021

LASER SYSTEMS www.images-magazine.com 60 images DECEMBER 2021 KB Roland DG: LV Series Laser Engravers The LV Series of laser engravers delivers reliable, high-quality output when cutting, engraving, and marking complex shapes and text on an extensive range of materials, says Roland DG. Perfect for giftware and personalised products, the LV series is “compact and easy-to- use on plastic, wood, leather or cork, for a smooth finish without burrs, eliminating the need for final touch-up work”. “By using a non-contact CO2 laser, with no engraving cutters to break or wear out, the machine maintains a beautifully clean- cut finish with no degradation in quality,” reports the company. The LV Series includes the LV- 290 and LV-180 machines, which each come with an automatic safety interlock mechanism that stops laser activation if the cover opens during processing, adds Roland DG. “LED lighting also illuminates the work area, allowing visual process checks in line with safety protocols during the engraving production process,” it continues. “The LV-290 also comes fitted with a CCD camera, which allows materials to contour cut UV- printed graphics accurately. “In addition, it can pair with the VersaUV LEF2 printer for a one-stop solution, printing photo-realistic colour, textures and simulated 3D embossing on objects up to 100mm thick.” The LV series enables engraving on plastic, wood, leather and cork A polyester fleece that has been etched using a Eurolaser system your market is and what materials you want to cut and engrave," says Annette. "Make sure you get some samples cut and are happy with the quality that is achieved. There are different laser powers to suit different applications, so make sure that you choose the one that is best for your product. "You also need to consider your product size. What size laser machine do you require? Do you need any additional options like a specialised plastic cutting bed, a conveyor bed for cutting materials on the ‘fly’? There are many options to help you get the best out of your machine and production." On the skills side, while system training is offered by all the main UK distributors of lasers, users will need to have enough graphic design knowledge to create vector files. "Since the equipment itself is relatively easy to use, garment and textile decorators should focus on establishing or improving their graphic design skills prior to taking delivery of their laser," recommends William. Getting started There are a few options open to those who'd like to test the market first without a big capital outlay. One is to contract out any laser work. "Through our bespoke laser cutting service we can provide test samples using a customer’s own design on the fabric they want to cut or engrave," explains Annette. "We have a minimum order of £35, so we can produce an initial production run at a low cost; customers can then gauge the level of interest for their cut/engraved products before commencing full production." James reports that outsourcing has become a popular service for many laser businesses, with companies choosing to offer the service as an additional revenue stream. "You can also look at Fab Labs or Makerspaces, which often integrate laser engraving technology as an option for their members. All of these options make it easy for non-laser users to see the quality and benefits of the technology without the initial outlay." Alternatively, decorators who have a client in mind and are looking for proof of concept can book a demonstration at one of Trotec's six showrooms, he adds. "At the demonstration you will get an understanding of the equipment as well as the possibility to create real samples to show to your clients." The right textiles There are issues to be aware of when using lasers. "Cutting synthetic fibre textiles is basically unproblematic," says Thomas. "However, when laser-cutting natural fibres or leather, odours may be affected and the cut edges may become discoloured. The discolouration of the cut edges can be reduced with optimal parameter settings, and a good airing out often helps against the smell of the burned cut edges." Burning is one of the most common issues faced when laser cutting, confirms Annette. "By being able to control your laser power with incredible accuracy as well as using compressed air, you are able to vastly reduce this on most materials. Our laser software is also very intelligent as it can even reduce down the laser power in corners and around curves to ensure perfect, clean cuts every time." Depending on what media is being cut or engraved, compressed air can be used for cooling the media, particularly if cutting plastics; increasing the air circulation to prevent debris and fibres getting in the way at the point of cut; and helping to keep the lens clean of debris. Certain materials are not suitable for being cut or engraved by laser. "Materials that are labelled as fire- retardant often contain bromide, which is released when laser cut and can cause damage to both the machine and the operator," warns James. "The only material we advise against laser cutting or engraving is polyvinyl chloride (PVC)," says William. "When laser engraved or cut, this material releases a corrosive gas that can severely damage the inside of the machine and can also be harmful to the laser operator if ingested. Engraving or cutting PVC will void the warranty on Epilog Laser systems." He reports, however, that most fabrics and textiles are generally very laser