3dpBurner is an open source laser cutter/engraver.
It is created with the same concept as RepRap, using 3D printed parts and some easy to find “vitamins” (non printed hardware).
I tried to make it as cheap as possible, by using cheap electronics and a “low power” laser (a laser diode).
The X/Y working area is fully customisable and the max working object height is up to 50-60mm.
The cutter/engraver basically uses the 3D printed parts, M8 and M3 size hardware (rods, nuts,washers and bolts), some small bearings and GT2 pulleys and belts. I got most of the parts from my “old” RepRap printer.
The X/Y working area is fully customsable by changing the length of the 8mm rods.
The electronics uses an Arduino UNO with a cheap CNC shield and two Pololu based stepper drivers to drive two NEMA17 stepper motors.
It uses a laser diode to cut/engrave, the diode module is cooled by an aluminium heatsink and a fan and it is controlled by a cheap constant current driver. Personally I’m using a popular 1.6W blue laser diode (note this diode is sold as being capable of up to 3W), but you can use your own diode (DVD recorder, BluRay, M140…).
NOTE: It is imperative you get the appropriate protection for your eyes and have a way to vent the toxic fumes released by the most of materials. The first thing you need to buy prior to applying power to your laser is a pair of safety glasses appropriate to your laser wave length. The laser spot or laser reflections can hurt your eyes very easily. Avoid using IR laser diodes as the beam is invisible but will still cause the same amount of damage as a visible laser. IR diodes are more dangerous as it is not obvious when they are switched on.
For more detail: 3dpBurner – A 3D printed laser cutter/engraver
