Technical Support is available from 8am to 5pm (PST) M - F at support@fslaser.com.
8
Laser cutting and engraving systems can present a signicant re hazard due to the extremely
high temperatures generated by the laser beam. While the objective of most cutting and engraving
operations is to vaporize material without burning, most materials capable of being cut or engraved
are inherently combustible and can ignite. Usually this is a small ame of burning material issuing
from the cut zone which self extinguishes due to the air assist or depowering of the beam. However,
it is possible for the ame to propagate and set re to the machine and its surroundings.
ALWAYS keep a properly maintained and inspected 5lb or larger re extinguisher on hand.
Full Spectrum Laser recommends a Halogen re extinguisher or a multipurpose dry chemical re
extinguisher. Halogen extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain
advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher. The Halogen extinguisher discharges a
clean, easily removable substance that is not harmful to the mechanics or wiring of the laser system.
The dry chemical extinguisher discharges a sticky, corrosive powder that is very difcult to clean up.
BE AWARE that stacking materials (especially organic materials such as paper) can lead to
increased risk of ame propagation or work piece ignition.
NEVER operate your machine unattended. There is a signicant risk of re if the machine is set
improperly, or if the machine should experience a mechanical or electrical failure while operating.
ALWAYS keep the area around the machine clean and free of clutter, combustible materials,
explosives, or volatile solvents such as acetone, alcohol, or gasoline.
ALWAYS use air assist when vector cutting.
BE CAREFUL when vector cutting. Many materials have the potential to burst suddenly into
ames – even materials that may be very familiar to the user. Always monitor the machine when
it is operating.
Fire Safety
PRO TIP! Experience shows that vector cutting with the laser
has the most potential to create an open ame. Acrylic in all
its different forms has been shown to be especially ammable
when vector cutting with a laser.