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Paper and Cardboard
When engraving various paper products, generally use low to moderate power and fast speed. Test samples from
each batch as only small parameter diff erences can separate eff ects that are too light from those that burn through the
substrate. As with leather, be especially attentive to the possibility of fi re, as well as the dust produced in repetitive
applications.
Plastics
Plastics for engraving are available in many diff erent colors and thicknesses and with many diff erent coatings and
surfaces. The majority of available plastics can be well engraved and cut with the laser. Plastics with a microporous
surface seem to give the best result because less surface material needs to be removed. When engraving plastics,
generally use low power and high-speed settings. Marking and engraving with too much power or at too low a speed
can concentrate too much energy at the point of contact, causing the plastic to melt. Among other problems, this
may produce poor engraving quality, noxious fumes, and even fi res. High-resolution engraving can cause the same
problem, so medium to low-resolution designs should be preferred for most plastics.
Rubber
Rubber’s inconsistent composition density causes slightly varying engraving depth. Testing various settings on sample
pieces of your specifi c rubber is highly recommended for the best results. When engraving rubber, generally use a
consistently high power setting and create your eff ects by varying the laser's speed. Microporous rubber materials
require a signifi cantly higher speed than standard rubber. Engraving any kind of rubber produces a considerable
amount of dust and gas. Depending on the amount of work, breathing PPE and/or a full ventilation system may be
required to address the problem.
Stone
When engraving various kinds of stone, generally use moderate power and moderate to fast speed. As with ceramics
and glass, be mindful of the dust created (especially for repetitive industrial applications) and take similar measures
to ensure the safety of users and others in the work area.
Textiles
When engraving textiles like cloth and fl eece, generally use low power and fast speed. As with leather, be especially
attentive to the possibility of fi re and dust.
Wood
As with rubber, there is a huge variety of woods and testing your specifi c material is essential to get the best results.
In general, wood with consistent grain and coloring engraves more evenly. Knotted wood produces uneven eff ects,
while resinous wood produces greater edge contrast. Some softwoods like balsa, cork, and pine engrave well (albeit
with low contrast) at low or moderate power settings and high speed. Others like fi r suff er from uneven fi bers that
usually produce a poor eff ect no matter what you do. Hardwoods like cherry and oak engrave well at high power
settings and low speed. Manufactured wood products can vary from brand to brand, mostly based on their glue
composition and abundance. MDF works well but creates dark edges when cut.
In addition to the risk of fi re with any wood product, extra care must be taken with the fumes from the glue used in
plywood and other manufactured woods. Some are too dangerous to work with at all, while others require careful
ventilation and the use of breathing PPE for repetitive industrial applications. Wood toxicity should also be examined,
as the dust from some natural woods, including oleander and yew, can cause nausea and cardiac problems in high
enough amounts.
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