Preparing for Laser Cutting

Rhino File Preparation

Rhino Template

Material Preparation

Material Size

18″ x 32″ is the exact size of the cutting table. If material is larger than the table size, it will not lay flat on the cutting table resulting in possible gantry collision. It’s recommended to always cut material to 17 7/8″ x 31 7/8″ to ensure it fits on the cutting table.

Paper materials can be cut down with a utility knife. Acrylic, MDF and Plywood can be cut down using the band saw or table saw in the wood shop.

Plastic Sheets

Only acrylic can be cut on the laser cutter. Lab staff will check to ensure plastic material is acrylic. Students are responsible for providing documentation showing that the material is acrylic. “Acrylic” must be printed on the label or plastic protective film.

PVC, CPVC, and vinyls look similar to acrylic but are prohibited because cutting can produce toxic fumes.

Protective Film on Acrylic Sheets

Protective film should NOT be removed because it protects the face of the acrylic during the cutting process.

If only one side of an acrylic sheet has the protective film remaining, ensure that this side is facing the honeycomb laser bed.