OMTech Polar 350 50W Desktop Laser Engraver Owner's Manual
Preface
Thank you for choosing the OMTech Polar 350 as your new laser engraver! Your CO2 laser engraving machine is intended for personal and professional use. The Polar is a CLASS 4 laser that must be used with great care to avoid serious property damage and severe personal injury, including burns and permanent eye damage. Never disable the preinstalled safety devices and always use your laser safely and responsibly.
Read this manual carefully before operation. It covers the details of correct installation, adjustment, maintenance, and—most importantly—safe operation of your new laser. It is intended to be used in conjunction with your engraving software manual, as the software not only provides image design and conversion but also serves as the main interface to the laser settings and machine controls. You and any other users of this device should thoroughly understand BOTH manuals before attempting to operate the laser.
Keep both manuals for future reference and provide them to ANYONE who will install, operate, maintain, or repair this machine. Both manuals should be included if this device is given or sold to a third party.
If you have any questions after reading these manuals, please contact OMTech support, and their department will address your concerns as soon as possible.
Introduction
1.1 General Information
This manual is the designated user guide for the installation, setup, safe operation, and maintenance of your desktop laser engraver. It is divided into six chapters covering general information, safety instructions, installation steps, operation instructions, maintenance procedures, and contact information. ALL personnel involved in the installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and repair of this machine should read and understand this manual, particularly its safety instructions. Some components are extremely high voltage and/or produce powerful laser radiation. Substandard performance and longevity, property damage, and personal injury may result from not knowing and following these instructions.
The Polar 350 works by emitting a powerful laser beam from a glass tube filled with carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen, and insulating gases; reflecting that beam off three mirrors and through a lens; and using this focused light to etch designs into certain substrates. The active laser is invisible to the human eye. This device should never be used while any cover or access panel is open to avoid potentially permanent injury. When its pass-through is used, care should be taken to avoid possible reflective rays.
The laser tube typically travels along the Y axis during engraving. The first mirror is fixed near the left end of the laser tube, the second mirror is fixed nearby, and the third mirror is attached to the laser head that travels along the X axis. The first and second mirrors are located within protective housing but, because dust is generated by the engraving process, the 2nd mirror's window, the 3rd mirror, and the focus lens require frequent cleaning.
With low intensity use, the provided laser tube has an average lifespan around 10,000 hours before requiring replacement. However, constantly running your laser above 70% of its maximum rated power can significantly shorten its service life. It is recommended to use settings from 10–70% of the maximum rated power to enjoy optimal performance and longevity.
The cover's viewing window naturally absorbs most reflected beams from the high infrared laser but it is NOT otherwise protected against it. Protective eyewear should ALWAYS be used by EVERYONE present when the laser is active. Such eyewear should be at least OD6 at the laser's main wavelength of 10.6 microns.
The integrated water cooling system must be used with this engraver to dissipate the heat produced by the laser tube. Similarly, the provided exhaust system must be used in conjunction with an external vent or dedicated air purifier to remove the dust and gases produced by the engraving process and ensure compliance with laws and regulations for workplace and environmental air quality. Never operate the engraver without both of these systems operating properly.
Note that this device broadcasts signals in the radio spectrum as part of its wireless connectivity. Special shielding or equipment may be necessary to minimize interference with emergency & licensed broadcasting, particularly in residential areas.
1.2 Symbol Guide
The following symbols are used on this machine's labeling or in this manual:
- ⚠ [Warning Symbol]: These items present a risk of serious property damage or personal injury.
- ⚠ [Laser Warning Symbol]: These items address similarly serious concerns regarding the laser beam.
- ⚠ [Electrical Warning Symbol]: These items address similarly serious concerns regarding electricity.
- ⚠ [Fire Hazard Symbol]: These items address similarly serious concerns regarding fire hazards.
- 👁 [Eyewear Symbol]: Protective eyewear should be worn by anyone nearby during use.
- ⚑ [Pinching Hazard Symbol]: Nearby objects present a risk of pinching or crushing injury.
- CE [CE Marking]: This product is sold in conformity with applicable EU regulations.
- ♻ [Recycling Symbol]: Safe and legal disposal of this product requires special considerations.
1.3 Designated Use
The Polar 350 is intended for use engraving signs and other consumer products on applicable substrates. This laser can process a wide variety of materials including wood and cork, paper and cardboard, most plastics, glass, cloth and leather, and stone. It can also be used with some specially coated metals. Use of this system for non-designated purposes or materials is not permitted.
The system must be operated, maintained, and repaired by personnel familiar with the field of use and the dangers of the machine and the material being engraved including its reflectivity, conductivity, potential for creating harmful or combustible fumes, etc.
Laser beams are dangerous. OMTech and its sellers bear no responsibility and assume no liability for any improper use of this device or for any damage or injury arising from such use. The operator is obliged to use this desktop laser engraver only in accordance with its designated use, the other instructions in its manuals, and all applicable local and national laws and regulations.
Technical Specifications
Model | Polar 350 |
Input Power | 110–120 V~ 60 Hz |
Power Consumption | 600 W |
Rated Power | 50 W |
Expected Service Life at <40% / 40–70% / >70% Power | 11,000 / 10,000 / 8,000 hr. |
Laser Wavelength | 10.6 µm (10,600 nm) |
Laser Tube Diameter | 2.2 in. (5.5 cm) |
Laser Tube Length | 35 in. (90 cm) |
Mirror Diameter | 0.8 in. (20.5 mm) |
Mirror Thickness | 0.12 in. (3 mm) |
Focus Lens Diameter | 0.6 in. (15.5 mm) |
Focus Lens Thickness | 0.08 in. (2 mm) |
Focus Lens Focal Length | 2 in. (50.8 mm) |
Honeycomb Workbed Dimensions | 22.5×13.2×0.9 in. (57.1×33.6×2.2 cm) |
Processing Area Standard (L×W) | 20.1×11.8 in. (510×300 mm) |
Processing Area Trayless (L×W) | 13.7×8.2 in. (350×210 mm) |
Processing Area Rotary 1 (L×D) | 0–9.4×2.4–2.9 in. (0–240×60–75 mm) |
Processing Area Rotary 2 (L×D) | 0–9.4×1.2–2.3 in. (0–240×30–60 mm) |
Front/Back Pass-Through Area (L×H) | 14.1×0.19 in. (360×5 mm) |
Max. Processing Speed | 19.6 ips (500 mm/s) |
Rec. Processing Acceleration X Axis | 196 ips² (5000 mm/s²) |
Rec. Processing Acceleration Y Axis | 118 ips² (3000 mm/s²) |
Max. Material Thickness Standard | 0.67 in. (1.7 cm) |
Max. Material Thickness Without Workbed | 2 in. (5.1 cm) |
Max. Resolution | 1000 dpi |
Min. Letter Size | 0.04×0.04 in. (1×1 mm) |
Mainboard | Ruida 6442S (RDC6442S-B) |
Integrated Water Pump Capacity | 1.6 qt. (1.5 L) |
Integrated Water Pump Flow Rate | 142 gph (540 L/hr.) |
Integrated Air Assist Port Diameter | 0.4 in. (10 mm) |
Integrated Air Assist Air Flow | 18.8 cfm (533 L/min.) |
Integrated Digital Camera Max. Resolution | 5 MP |
Integrated Digital Camera Field of View | 20.1×11.8 in. (51×30 cm) |
Integrated Digital Camera Accuracy | ±0.04 in. (±1 mm) |
External Exhaust Fan Rated Power | 60 W |
External Exhaust Fan Port Diameter | 5.9 in. (150 mm) |
External Exhaust Fan Air Flow | 282/353 cfm (480/600 m³/hr.) |
Req. Operating Environment Humidity Range | 20–85% |
Req. Operating Environment Temp. Range | 40–104°F (5–40°C) |
Compatible Operating Software | CADLaser, CorelLaser, LightBurn, RDWorks |
Dimensions | 38.2×22.3×9.2 in. (97×56.5×23.4 cm) |
Net Weight | 104 lb. (47 kg) |
Components
Main Components
Top View
- A. Exhaust Fan: Pulls out gases and airborne debris from the workbed. Activates with the laser to minimize noise.
- B. Cover Interlocks: Switches that automatically pause work if the cover is opened.
- C. Rotary Plug: Connects to rotary axes for power and command signals.
- D. Wifi Card: Provides 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity.
- E. Laser Power Supply: Transforms electricity for the laser tube.
- F. Y-Axis Rail: Supports the movement of the laser tube and X-axis rail.
- G. Rotary Switch: Directs power and control to Y-axis or rotary axes.
- H. Laser Tube: CO2-filled glass tube, dangerous due to high voltage and laser radiation.
- I. Ammeter: Displays laser current in milliamps (mA).
- J. Air Assist: Directs pressurized air to the laser head to minimize dust and sparks.
- K. 1st & 2nd Mirrors: Fixed mirrors within protective housing that guide the laser beam.
- L. Laser Head: Holds the 3rd mirror, focus lens, and air assist outlet.
- M. X-Axis Rail: Supports the movement of the laser head.
- N. Tray Interlock: Stops the laser when the debris tray is removed.
- O. Water Pump: Circulates coolant to keep the laser tube cool.
- P. LED Light Strips: Integrated lights for workbed illumination.
- Q. Camera: Fisheye camera for precise design positioning.
- R. Water Tank: Holds coolant for the laser tube.
- S. Mainboard: Controls the engraving process, stores designs.
- T. Honeycomb Workbed: Supports material, allows airflow, features rulers.
- U. Start Button and Laser Status: Pauses/restarts engraving; ring color indicates status (Blue: Active Laser, Green: Ready to Work, Red: Error/Malfunction).
Front View
- A. Cover: Acrylic window for monitoring, absorbs reflected beams. Protective eyewear is essential.
- B. Debris Tray: Removable tray for cleaning and workbed installation; can function as front pass-through.
- C. Laser Key: Turns the laser power supply on/off for authorized use.
- D. Legs: Padded legs to protect surfaces.
Rear View
- A. Beam Attenuator: Master power control dial.
- B. Remote Interlock Connector: Secondary key for laser activation.
- C. Power Switch: Turns on mainboard, cooling, lighting, Wi-Fi; places exhaust/air assist in standby.
- D. Power Socket: Connects to main power supply and grounds components.
- E. Exhaust Fan: Pulls out gases and debris to a vent or purifier.
- F. Rear Pass-Through: Door for feeding larger materials; requires caution with reflections.
- G. Camera Port: USB port for camera connection.
- H. Computer Port: USB port for control computer connection.
- I. Ethernet Port: For fast wired connection to the control computer.
Laser Head Components
- A. 3rd Mirror: Transfers laser beam downwards.
- B. Focus Lens: Directs and focuses the laser beam.
- C. Air Assist: Provides pressurized air to minimize dust and sparks.
- D. Laser Beam: Invisible but highly dangerous; avoid direct exposure.
Rotary Axes
- A. Rotary Aviation Plug: Connects to rotary motor for power and control.
- B. Alignment Arrows: Indicate correct laser and X-axis rail positioning for rotary axes.
- C. Rotary Switches: Redirect power and control between Y-axis motors and rotary axes.
- D. Tray Interlock: Must be held closed during rotary engraving.
- E. Rotary Axis 1: Four-wheel rotary axis for larger items.
- F. Rotary Axis 2: Four-wheel rotary axis for smaller items.
- G. Height Adjustment Knob: Adjusts height of right-side wheels for conical objects.
Safety Information
2.1 Disclaimer
OMTech Polar 350 may differ from manual illustrations due to updates. Contact OMTech for manual issues.
2.2 General Safety Instructions
- Warning Labels: Ensure all warning labels are present and legible.
- Legal Compliance: Use the device only in accordance with local and national laws and regulations.
- Wireless Compliance: Adheres to FCC Part 15 for commercial use; residential areas may require additional equipment.
- Manual Adherence: Use only as per this manual and software manual. Ensure manuals are provided with the device if sold.
- Unattended Operation: DO NOT leave the device unattended. Observe operation; if strange behavior occurs, cut power immediately and contact support. Turn off fully after each use.
- Personnel: DO NOT allow minors, untrained, or impaired individuals to operate, maintain, or repair.
- Untrained Personnel Awareness: Inform anyone nearby that the device is dangerous and instruct them on safety.
- Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher, water hose, or flame retardant system nearby. Display local fire department number. Cut power before extinguishing fires. Familiarize yourself with extinguisher use.
- Laser Safety: The Polar 350 is a CLASS 4 LASER. Misuse can cause severe damage and injury.
- Burns combustible materials easily.
- Some materials produce radiation or harmful gases.
- Direct exposure causes burns and eye damage.
- DO NOT modify or disable safety features.
- NEVER leave the Polar open during operation (except pass-through doors).
- DO NOT interfere with the laser beam or place body parts in its path.
- DO NOT look directly at the active laser, even through the cover.
- EVERYONE nearby must wear appropriate laser safety eyewear (OD6+).
- ONLY use if automatic shutoffs are working.
- ONLY use on a flat, stable location.
- Cooling System: DO NOT operate if the water cooling system is not working. Visually confirm coolant flow. Stop immediately if it malfunctions. Allow 30 minutes to cool if it pauses due to high temperature (122°F/50°C).
- Coolant: DO NOT use generic coolant/antifreeze; use custom laser-safe formulations.
- Materials: DO NOT leave combustible, flammable, explosive, or corrosive materials near the laser.
- EMI: DO NOT use or leave sensitive EMI equipment nearby.
- Material Use: ONLY use materials specified in the Material Safety section. Adjust settings for specific materials.
- Air Quality: Ensure the area is free of airborne pollutants.
2.4 Electrical Safety Instructions
- Power Supply: Use only compatible, stable, grounded power supplies with <5% voltage fluctuation. Do not use ungrounded adapters. Check grounding regularly.
- Circuit Load: DO NOT connect other devices to the same circuit. Use surge protectors rated over 2000J.
- Work Area Environment: Keep the area dry, well-ventilated, and environmentally controlled (40–104°F / 5–40°C, ideally 75°F / 25°C; 20–85% humidity).
- Maintenance/Repair: ONLY trained professionals should perform electrical adjustments, maintenance, or repair.
- Power Off: Perform adjustments/maintenance only when the device is off, disconnected, and cooled.
2.5 Material Safety Instructions
- User Responsibility: Users must confirm materials can withstand laser heat and do not produce harmful emissions or byproducts.
- Forbidden Materials: DO NOT process PVC, Teflon, or other halogen-containing materials.
- PPE: Ensure all personnel have sufficient PPE (laser eyewear, goggles, masks, gloves, etc.).
- Air Assist: DO NOT operate the laser without air assist.
- Dust/Debris: Clean dust and debris promptly; buildup is a fire hazard.
- Exhaust System: DO NOT operate if the exhaust system is not working. Ensure it removes dust/gas per regulations.
- Conductive Materials: Use caution with conductive materials; dust can damage components or cause shorts.
Safe Materials:
- Cardboard
- Ceramics (Dishes, Tile, etc.)
- Glass
- Leather
- Paper & Paperboard
- Some Plastics (Nylon, Polyethylene, PETG, PMMA, POM, Polypropylene, ABS)
- Rubber
- Stone (Marble, Granite, etc.)
- Textiles (Cotton, Suede, Felt, Hemp, etc.)
- Wood (Cork, MDF, Plywood, Balsa, Birch, Cherry, Oak, Poplar, etc.)
Unsafe Materials:
- Artificial Leather with Hexavalent Chromium (Cr[VI])
- Astatine
- Beryllium Oxide
- Bromine
- Chlorine (including PVB, PVC, Vinyl)
- Fluorine (including Teflon, PTFE)
- Iodine
- Metals (due to conductivity/reflectivity)
- Phenolic Resins (Epoxy)
- Polycarbonate (PC, Lexan)
For other materials, consult MSDS or OMTech support.
Installation
3.1 Installation Overview
The system includes the laser engraver, air assist, water pump, exhaust fan, control computer, cables, interlock connector, and laser key. Designs can be sent via USB, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet. Additional accessories like fume extractors can be added.
Use only compatible hardware, wiring, and power sources. Improper equipment can lead to poor performance, damage, or injury.
Understand installation requirements for safe operation. Contact OMTech technicians for assistance. Auxiliary equipment should be adjusted to the base machine.
3.2 Location Selection
Choose a location that meets safety requirements: stable, level, dry, climate-controlled (40–104°F / 5–40°C, 20–85% humidity), not near the dew point. Avoid direct sunlight. The location must be free of dust and pollutants, with adequate ventilation for fumes (may require a dedicated system). Keep away from children, flammable/corrosive materials, and EMI devices. Use a grounded 3-prong outlet; do not share the circuit. Have firefighting equipment nearby and the fire department's number displayed. Ensure extra space around the machine to avoid fire or laser hazards.
3.3 Unpacking Your Engraver
- Open crate, remove workbed and foam.
- Remove other packaging. With help, lift engraver using straps to a stable surface.
- Remove straps and plastic packaging.
- Confirm all accessories are present (rotary axes, duct fan, exhaust pipes, blanks, cords, software USB, storage box, tools, etc.).
- Remove interior packaging and stays. Handle the laser tube delicately.
- Pull out debris tray. Place honeycomb workbed with desired ruler facing up, then slide tray back in. Never remove workbed through the main cover.
- Keep packaging for returns; dispose of materials according to regulations.
3.4 Exhaust System Installation
- Plan duct pipe route (up to 16'4" / 5m) to a purifier or exterior vent. Straighter pipes offer better ventilation.
- Connect smaller exhaust pipe to the fan behind the laser using a clamp. Attach the other end to the 60W duct fan inlet with an adapter ring and clamp.
- Connect larger exhaust pipe to the duct fan outlet with a clamp. Vent the other end to a fume extractor or outside.
- Connect the duct fan to power, ideally on a separate circuit. Confirm it operates at both speeds.
- NEVER operate the laser if the exhaust system is not removing fumes/dust. Research materials for hazardous fumes.
3.5 Main Power Connection
- Verify voltage on the label matches your supply. Connect interlock connector and power cord to the machine.
- Connect the other end of the power cord directly to a grounded outlet or a surge protector rated over 2000J. Do not use extension cords or power strips.
- For best results, have a technician verify power supply stability (<5% fluctuation) and outlet grounding.
- Poor grounding can cause equipment failure and electrical hazards.
3.6 Cooling System Inspection
The water pump is crucial for performance and longevity. Without it, the laser tube can crack.
- Open cover, confirm the coolant tank is full (approx. 1.6 quarts / 1.5L of OMTech coolant). Refill if below two-thirds full.
- Turn on the power switch and laser key. Confirm coolant flows through the tube and back to the tank.
3.7 Air Assist Inspection
- Confirm air assist pump starts when power is connected and engraving is initiated.
- Laser beam should fire 5 seconds after air assist starts.
- If tubing/wiring needs adjustment, turn off power first.
3.8 Control Computer Connection
- Connect computer to engraver via Ethernet or USB. Connect the camera via another USB cable.
- Connect the software USB flash drive or copy files to your computer.
- Install and open RDWorks software.
- In RDWorks:
- Go to Model (ALT+M) > select "RDC6442S".
- Go to File (ALT+F) > Vendor Settings > enter password "rd8888" > Open. Load "Manufacturer_parameters.RDVSet".
- Go to Config (ALT+S) > System Settings > Import Soft Para. Load "Software_parameter.cfg".
- On System Work Platform, change tab to User > Open. Load "User_parameters.RDUSet".
- Configure camera: Laser Work > Position > "Absolute Coordinates".
- Canvas Tools: Enable canvas function. Open Canvas Para Settings > Import Calibration > Load "Camera_calibration_file.calx".
- Familiarize yourself with software features. Contact OMTech support for LightBurn or other software help.
3.9 Wifi Configuration
- Check for "Polar350" network. Connect using password "123456abc".
- If not found, set your computer's Wi-Fi to a similar IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.x, excluding 47 and 100). Use subnet mask 255.255.255.0.
- In RDWorks: Go to Device (lower right). If not visible, adjust menus. Click Setting > Add > Web. Enter IP address 192.168.1.100. Select OK.
- You can now switch between cable and wireless connections via the Device menu.
3.10 Interlock Testing
This device shuts off the laser automatically when protective housing is opened to prevent injury.
- Cover Shutoffs: Turn on engraver and fans. Place scrap material, insert key, close cover. Start a design. Open cover slightly; laser should pause and restart when closed. If it continues, shutoffs are faulty; contact support.
- Tray Shutoff: Test similarly, but open the debris tray. Laser should stop. If it continues, shutoffs are faulty; contact support.
- Note: The tray interlock switch can be bypassed for thick materials or pass-through/rotary use by moving a switch and securing it with a bracket. Remember to reenable it.
- Rear Key (Interlock Connector): Test by removing the interlock connector. Laser should stop. If it continues, shutoffs are faulty; contact support.
- Water Shutoff: Test by crimping water hoses and briefly firing the laser. If it fires, the shutoff is faulty; contact support. If it does not fire, it is working. Release hoses and check for leaks.
3.11 Security
- The engraver requires two keys for power: one for the laser tube/interlock connector and one for the laser power.
- Remove at least one key between uses to prevent unauthorized operation, unless the area is completely secure and inaccessible to children.
Operation
4.1 Operation Overview
Operate the Polar 350 strictly according to this manual. Failure to follow guidelines can cause property damage and personal injury. Read this manual, the software manual, and all machine warnings before use.
4.2 General Operation Instructions
- Create your design using engraving software or other graphics programs.
- Turn on the duct fan and any fume extractor.
- Insert the interlock connector (if not in place). Turn on the engraver using the rear power switch and laser key. Put on protective laser glasses and other PPE. Confirm cooling, air assist, exhaust, and lights are active.
- Confirm computer connection (cable or Wi-Fi) to the Polar. Load your design into the software.
- Confirm material thickness using the ruler. Place material on the workbed (standard location: top left). Adjust design origin or material position as needed. Ensure rotary switch is in standard position if not using rotary. Close the cover.
- For materials > 0.67 inches (17 mm) thick, remove the honeycomb workbed.
- For pieces > 20 inches (510 mm) long, open the rear pass-through, remove debris tray/workbed, hold tray interlock switch, and replace workbed.
- DO NOT insert anything other than material through pass-through doors. Monitor ventilation.
- For round pieces, use a rotary axis (see §4.3).
- Focus the laser using the "Offset" parameter in the software's Test tab. For the 2-inch focus lens, the value is 17 minus the material thickness in mm.
Material Thickness & Offset Table:
Material Thickness | Offset |
Inches | mm | Value |
0 | 0.000 | 17.000 |
0.1 | 2.540 | 14.460 |
1/8 | 3.175 | 13.825 |
0.2 | 5.080 | 11.920 |
1/4 | 6.350 | 10.650 |
0.3 | 7.620 | 9.380 |
3/8 | 9.525 | 7.475 |
0.4 | 10.160 | 6.840 |
1/2 | 12.700 | 4.300 |
0.59 | 15.000 | 2.000 |
Save changes by pressing Z-.
- Adjust software parameters for your project. Start with low settings for new materials. Increase power/speed gradually.
- Recommended maximum power is 70% to prolong laser life. Minimum threshold is around 10%.
- Improve engraving/cutting by decreasing speed or increasing loops, not raw power.
- Resolution is usually 500 dpi. Lowering resolution can help with flaming and image quality.
- Begin engraving by clicking the "Start" button in Laser Work. Monitor for sparks/fires via camera. Do not stare at the laser. Be ready to extinguish fires. Increase fan power or pause if dust/fumes build up.
- Pause/resume with the engraver's Start button.
- Examine the first run and adjust parameters.
- If the engraver pauses due to cooling system reaching 122°F (50°C), allow it to cool before resuming.
- When finished, close software. Let cooling/ventilation run until the bay is clear and the tube is cool. Turn off the engraver (key and power switch), then the external fan. Unplug or turn off the surge protector.
- Open cover and clean dust/debris from workbed and bay surfaces. Use a damp cloth for firm buildup; avoid abrasive materials.
4.3 Rotary Operation Instructions
The Polar 350 includes two 4-wheel rotary axes for round/cylindrical objects. Use Axis 1 for larger, Axis 2 for smaller items.
- Create your design.
- Remove debris tray and honeycomb workbed. Cover the table with a non-reflective plank (e.g., MDF). Move laser tube/X-rail forward. Use the bracket to hold the tray interlock switch closed.
- Warning: Failure to cover the table can cause a fire hazard. Reflective surfaces can damage the engraver.
- Flip the rotary switch up to deactivate Y-axis motors and activate the rotary aviation socket.
- Connect the rotary cable to the socket and the rotary motor, aligning holes.
- Place the rotary axis in the open bay with its number label in the front left corner and support flush with the left side.
- Align the laser tube/X-axis rail arrow label with the corresponding number label on the bay (1 on the right for Axis 1, 2 on the left for Axis 2).
- Place your object on the rotary axis. Measure the distance from the rotary base surface to the object's upper surface. The Offset value for the 2-inch focus lens is 86.2 minus this distance in mm.
Follow regular engraving steps. Remove table cover when finished.
4.4 Instructions for Specific Materials
Research specific material safety and engraving requirements. Test settings on sample pieces. Start with low power/fast speed.
Average Engraving Settings
Material | Engraving | Cutting |
| Acrylic | Basswood | Canvas | Cardboard | Leather | MDF | Rubber | Acrylic | Basswood | Canvas | Cardboard | Leather | MDF | Rubber |
Power (W) | 25 | 25 | 12.5 | 22.5 | 15 | 20 | 17.5 | 45 | 45 | 30 | 45 | 45 | 45 | 45 |
Speed (mm/s) | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 500 | 35 | 65 | 350 | 200 | 80 | 30 | 25 |
Rec. Thickness (mm) | 3 | 3 | 0.2 | 2 | 1.5 | 3 | 3 | | | | | | | |
Resolution (dpi) | 400 | 400 | 300 | 400 | 400 | 300 | 400 | | | | | | | |
Material-Specific Advice:
- Ceramics: Moderate to high power, more loops to avoid cracks. Be mindful of dust and use PPE/ventilation.
- Glass: High power, low speed. More loops at lower settings to avoid cracks. Be cautious with fiberglass/carbon fiber. Wear PPE. Wash fiberglass clothing separately.
- Leather: Low to moderate power, high speed. Be attentive to fire risk and dust.
- Metal: CO2 lasers are not for marking/cutting metal itself, but for coatings. Follow coating-specific instructions.
- Paper and Cardboard: Low to moderate power, fast speed. Test samples; small parameter differences matter. Be attentive to fire risk and dust.
- Plastics: Generally low power, high speed. Microporous surfaces give best results. Avoid too much power or low speed, which can cause melting, poor quality, fumes, and fires. Medium to low resolution is preferred.
- Rubber: Consistent high power, vary speed. Microporous rubber needs higher speed. Produces dust/gas; use PPE/ventilation.
- Stone: Moderate power, moderate to fast speed. Be mindful of dust and use PPE/ventilation.
- Textiles: Low power, fast speed. Be attentive to fire risk and dust.
- Wood: Test specific wood types. Knotted wood gives uneven effects; resinous wood gives edge contrast. Soft woods (balsa, cork, pine) engrave well at low/moderate power, high speed. Hard woods (cherry, oak) engrave well at high power, low speed. Manufactured woods require care due to glues; some are too dangerous to work with. Wood toxicity (dust) can cause nausea/cardiac issues.
Maintenance
5.1 Maintenance Overview
Improper procedures can lead to hazardous laser exposure. Always switch off and disconnect power before cleaning or maintenance. Keep the system clean; flammable debris is a fire hazard. ONLY trained professionals should modify or disassemble the device.
- Ensure coolant/water is always provided; tank should be at least two-thirds full.
- Clean workbed and empty waste bin daily.
- Check camera, mirrors, and focus lens daily.
- Check exhaust system weekly.
- Clean and lubricate guide rails bi-weekly.
- Check air assist monthly.
- Check other components monthly.
5.2 Cleaning
ALWAYS allow fluids to dry completely before use.
Cleaning the Camera, Mirrors, and Focus Lens:
- NEVER touch surfaces with fingers. Avoid pressing hard to prevent scratches.
- 1st and 2nd mirrors are pre-aligned and require no adjustment/cleaning.
- Clean protective housing windows with a laser-safe microfiber cloth or cotton swab with alcohol/cleaning solution, using gentle circular motions.
- To access the laser head interior, remove its shell. Clean the 3rd mirror lens and both sides of the focus lens similarly. Remove other dust/debris. Wipe shell holes clean.
- Clean camera lens. If spots appear under the glass, contact support for replacement.
Cleaning the Main Bay and Engraver:
Check daily for dust accumulation. Cleaning interval depends on material and usage. A clean machine ensures optimal performance and reduces costs/risks. Clean viewing window with mild cleansers and a lens/cotton cloth. DO NOT use paper towels. Clean interior of the main bay thoroughly, removing debris. Paper towels and window cleaner are recommended. To clean side panels, remove them after turning off/unplugging the engraver and disconnecting electronics. Remove front/rear screws to detach panels. Replace using the same screws and reconnect electronics.
Cleaning the Cooling System:
NEVER touch water supply while connected to power. Shield coolant tank from dust. If coolant becomes dirty, discontinue use. Remove contaminated coolant using a baster or fluid extractor. If very polluted, refill with clean water, run briefly, extract again. Refill with clean distilled water or laser-safe coolant. Clean the water tank annually as a precaution.
5.3 Cooling System Maintenance
- NEVER touch water supply while connected to power.
- Ensure tank is at least two-thirds full of coolant or clean water before/after each use.
- If low, add distilled water or laser-safe coolant.
5.4 Laser Path Alignment
Mirrors are pre-aligned. If testing alignment with tape, never place tape directly on mirrors/lenses. Use <15% power. Do not disable cover interlocks. If mirrors are misaligned, contact OMTech support.
5.5 Rail Lubrication
Clean and lubricate guide rails every two weeks. Turn off engraver. Move head aside. Wipe rails and Z-axis screws with a dry cotton cloth. Lubricate with white lithium grease. Move head/axis to distribute lubricant.
5.6 Parts Replacement
Do not modify or disassemble the engraver except by trained professionals. Use only identical or compatible replacement parts. Contact OMTech for questions. Incompatible parts are dangerous and void warranty.
5.7 Disposal Instructions
Dispose of electrical products separately from household waste according to EU/UK Directive 2012/19/EU or similar local regulations. Contact authorities for advice.
Contact Us
Register warranty: support@omtechlaser.com or (949) 539-0458 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM - 4:30 PM PST).
Download manual PDF: omtechlaser.com.
Join OMTech community on Facebook, visit company forums, or watch YouTube videos for tips. For problems, contact techsupport@omtechlaser.com.
OMTECH—Beaming with Possibilities!
Models: V20240313 Polar 350 50W Desktop Laser Engraver, V20240313, Polar 350 50W Desktop Laser Engraver, Desktop Laser Engraver, Laser Engraver