1. Product Overview
The Laser Tree LT-5W-F45 is a professional 5W fixed-focus laser module designed for precision engraving and cutting tasks. Featuring a 450nm TTL blue laser head and integrated air assist, it is specifically compatible with CNC 3018 machines and other CNC systems with a round top mounting base. This module enhances cutting performance by providing clean-cut edges and offers eye protection through its anti-blue light view window.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: This product emits laser radiation. Avoid direct eye or skin exposure to direct or scattered radiation. Always wear appropriate laser safety goggles when operating the device.
- Never look directly into the laser beam.
- Ensure the work area is well-ventilated.
- Keep children and pets away from the operating laser machine.
- Do not operate the laser module near flammable materials.
- Always use the provided eye protective cover or equivalent laser safety glasses.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- LT-5W-F45 Laser Module
- 3PIN Input Cable (80cm)
- Air Tube (Ø8*6mm, 1.5m)
- Focus Fixing Plates (3mm, 4mm, 5mm) x3
- Spare Protective Lens
- Eye Shield (Red)
4. Setup Instructions
4.1 Mounting the Laser Module
- Ensure your CNC 3018 machine is powered off and disconnected from the power source.
- Locate the mounting base on your CNC machine. The LT-5W-F45 is compatible with most CNC machines featuring a round top mounting base.
- Securely attach the laser module to the CNC machine's mounting bracket. Ensure it is stable and does not wobble.
4.2 Electrical Connection
- Connect the provided 3PIN input cable to the corresponding port on the laser module.
- Connect the other end of the 3PIN cable to your CNC controller board's laser output port. Refer to your CNC machine's manual for specific wiring diagrams if needed.
- The module requires a DC 12V 2A input. Ensure your power supply meets these requirements.
4.3 Air Assist Connection
For optimal cutting performance and clean edges, connect an air pump (not included) to the air assist nozzle.
- Attach one end of the provided air tube (Ø8*6mm) to the air nozzle on the laser module.
- Connect the other end of the air tube to your air pump.
- Ensure the air tube is securely fitted to prevent leaks.
4.4 Focusing the Laser
The LT-5W-F45 is a fixed-focus laser module with a focus length of 45mm. To achieve the optimal focus for different material thicknesses, use the provided focus fixing plates.
- Place the material to be engraved or cut on the work surface.
- Select the appropriate focus fixing plate (3mm, 4mm, or 5mm) based on your material and desired focal point.
- Place the focus fixing plate on top of your material.
- Lower the laser module until the bottom of the module (or the tip of the air nozzle) just touches the top of the focus fixing plate.
- Remove the focus fixing plate. The laser is now set to the correct focal distance for your material.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Basic Operation
- Ensure the laser module is correctly installed and connected.
- Wear your laser safety goggles.
- Power on your CNC machine and the laser module.
- Load your engraving or cutting G-code file into your CNC control software.
- Perform a dry run (without the laser active) to verify the tool path.
- Activate the laser and start the engraving/cutting process.
5.2 Utilizing Air Assist
The air assist feature significantly improves cutting quality and speed by blowing away debris and cooling the cutting area.
- Turn on your air pump before starting any cutting operation that requires air assist.
- Air assist helps prevent scorching and produces cleaner edges, especially when cutting wood or acrylic.
5.3 Recommended Cutting Parameters
The following are general guidelines. Actual parameters may vary based on material density, laser power settings, and machine rigidity.
| Material | Thickness | Speed (mm/min) | Power (%) | Passes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood | 3mm | 200 | 100% | 1 |
| Pinewood | 5mm | 80 | 100% | 1 |
| Black Acrylic | 5mm | 25 | 100% | 1 |
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning the Protective Lens
Dust and debris can accumulate on the protective lens, affecting laser performance. Regularly clean the lens to maintain optimal output.
- Ensure the laser module is powered off and cooled down.
- Carefully unscrew the air nozzle and the protective lens assembly.
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a small amount of lens cleaning solution (or isopropyl alcohol) to gently wipe the lens surface.
- Allow the lens to dry completely before reassembling.
6.2 Replacing the Protective Lens
If the protective lens is scratched or damaged, it should be replaced with a spare one to ensure laser quality and safety.
- Follow steps 1-3 from '6.1 Cleaning the Protective Lens' to remove the damaged lens.
- Insert the new spare protective lens into the assembly.
- Carefully reassemble the protective lens and air nozzle onto the laser module.
7. Troubleshooting
- No Laser Output: Check power connections, 3PIN cable connection to the CNC board, and ensure the laser is enabled in your software. Verify the power supply is providing DC 12V 2A.
- Weak Laser Output/Poor Engraving: Clean the protective lens. Ensure the laser is correctly focused (refer to Section 4.4). Check if the material parameters (speed, power) are appropriate for your material.
- Scorched Edges during Cutting: Ensure the air assist is properly connected and the air pump is active. Air assist is crucial for clean cuts.
- Module Overheating: Ensure adequate ventilation around the laser module. Do not block any cooling fins. Operate within the recommended operating temperature range (0-60℃).
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | LT-5W-F45 |
| Optical Power | 5W (±1W) |
| Input | DC 12V 2A |
| Wavelength | 450nm (±10nm) |
| Focus Type | Fixed-focus |
| Focus Length | 45mm |
| PWM Modulation | 0/3-12V, 0-5kHz |
| Operating Temperature | 0-60℃ |
| Interface | XH2.54-3P Socket |
| Cable | 3PIN, 80cm |
| Module Weight | 196.5g |
| Application | Engraving or Cutting |
| Certification | CE, FCC, RoHS, WEEE |
| Dimensions (Height) | 128 ± 0.3 mm |
| Dimensions (Width) | 43.6 - 0.4 mm |
| Red Cover Height | 40 ± 0.5 mm |
| Air Tube Suggestion (Outer Diameter) | 6mm |
| Air Tube Suggestion (Inner Diameter) | ≥4mm |
9. User Tips
- Optimize Air Assist: Always use air assist for cutting operations to achieve cleaner cuts and reduce charring. Experiment with air pressure for best results on different materials.
- Material Testing: Before starting a large project, perform small test cuts or engravings on scrap material to fine-tune your speed and power settings.
- Regular Cleaning: A clean protective lens is vital for consistent laser performance. Make lens cleaning a routine part of your maintenance.
- Software Compatibility: Ensure your CNC control software (e.g., LightBurn, GRBL) is properly configured for TTL laser control and power modulation.
10. Warranty and Support
The Laser Tree LT-5W-F45 laser module comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact our customer service. All inquiries will be answered within 24 hours.
Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty validation.
