Laser Engraver Project

About a year ago, I had a 3D printer come into my shop.  I had never worked with one before, so I tried to figure out everything I could about it.  It was brought to my shop because my coworker and I are seen as technical, and by association we would be able to figure out what was wrong with it.  It was quite the learning experience poring over the components--how they were connected, how they moved, and perplexing when the head of the unit did not want to move across one of the axes.

The solution was fairly simple, one of the components attaching the head to the axis had come loose.  Two tightened screws later, the 3D printer was working properly and back to making objects.

This experience ignited a desire to learn how to make my own.  I checked for tutorials online and was surprised to learn there was a lot of information for DIY builds.  I also discovered, there were more than just 3D printers out there--all sorts of other CNC type machines existed including laser engravers.

Ultimately I decided a laser engraver would be the best thing to try and build.  With the exception of a few parts, I would be able to use recovered components from various scrap devices to build it.

Laser Engraver Project Goals
My goals for this project are simple.  I want to create a functional laser engraver capable of engraving wood.  I want to make it using mostly reclaimed materials and components.  As I work on this project, I will do my best to document what I'm doing and how I'm doing it, whether it is a success or failure.

Laser Warning
While this should be entirely obvious to most, lasers can be dangerous.  Avoid looking into the operational end of a laser.  Do not point the operational end of the laser at anyone, or anything.

 With some luck, pieces like this will be what I will end up with at the end of this project.  Photo credit to Universal Laser Systems.