How to maintain a laser machine

Laser machines are indispensable tools for businesses seeking unparalleled precision and efficiency. To ensure consistent high-quality results and prolonged service life proper maintenance is not just beneficial—it's essential. In this article, we delve into the importance of maintaining your laser machine and we provide a guide on how to keep it running smoothly. Discover why maintaining Trotec laser plotters is surprisingly easy.

Effective maintenance and servicing are the cornerstones of achieving consistently high engraving and cutting results and ensuring a long service life for your laser machine. Without proper maintenance, your machine's performance may degrade over time, leading to poor results and costly repairs. A well-maintained machine not only delivers superior engraving and cutting outcomes but also prevents downtime. By prioritising maintenance, the efficiency of your laser can be maximised, ultimately adding significant value to your products and operations.

Creating an ideal operating environment for your laser machine is paramount to ensure its peak performance and longevity. Keeping the room temperature between +15°C and +25°C and humidity between 40% to 70% is optimal for Trotec laser machines. It's vital to shield the machine from direct sunlight and avoid positioning it near heat sources or air conditioner airflow. During colder seasons, employing a frost guard on the heater hinders room temperature from dropping below the recommended +15°C and preheat the space before laser operation. Placing the laser at a distance from heat sources prevents it from overheating, while ensuring proper ventilation for optimal air circulation.

Learn more about how to provide the perfect environment for your laser during winter and summer extremes

Optimal performance of your laser machine can only be achieved with thorough and regular cleaning. This ensures smooth operation as deposits can cause flame formation and material residues may block air ducts within the laser. Here is a guide on how keep your laser plotter and its components clean:

Utilise Trotec's InPack Technology™

Take advantage of Trotec laser machines featuring InPack Technology™, designed to shield vulnerable components from dirt and dust. This proprietary design minimises the risk of contamination, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and ensuring robust protection.

Employ Atmos exhaust systems

For efficient removal of dust and smoke from the processing area, use Atmos exhaust systems. These systems indicate when filter replacement is needed, ensuring effective extraction and maintaining a clean environment.

Use Air Assist circulation nozzles

To safeguard lenses and mirrors from contamination, utilise Trotec's Air Assist circulation nozzles. 

Inspect and clean optics

Regularly inspect and clean lenses and mirrors to ensure precision engraving and cutting. Make it a habit to visually examine the lens and mirror of the machining head daily, with monthly checks on side mirrors. You can find more tips on how keep your laser focus lenses clean.

Follow six tips

Adhere to Trotec's top six tips for maintaining cleanliness and optimal processing outcomes:

1. Regularly clean the machine
2. Ensure appropriate extraction system sizing
3. Cover unused work areas – this increases the extraction efficiency in the used area of the engraving
4. Utilise reverse engraving direction in Ruby® laser software – This way, the dust is cleared, keeping it from drifting under the path of the laser beam
5. Take advantage of smart maintenance
6. Schedule ongoing servicing by Trotec technicians

By following this guide and applying Trotec's technology and recommendations, you can keep your laser machine and components clean, ensuring high performance and longevity.

Efficient exhaust systems, like the Atmos, create a clean and safe working environment for laser machines. These systems are designed to eliminate dust, gases, and odours using an activated carbon filter. The Atmos Series not only ensures high-quality engraving and cutting but also protects the laser lenses, extending their lifespan. Atmos laser exhaust systems are user-friendly, efficient and require minimal maintenance. They remove harmful substances safely, allowing operators to work securely with less cleaning time. The system operates intelligently, turning on only when the laser is in use, which promotes careful usage and further extends its lifespan. With features such as brushless turbines and highly resistant filters, Trotec's exhaust systems are durable and cost-effective.

Our Ruby® laser software enhances smart maintenance. It monitors filter saturation and performance in real-time, providing users with insights on a dashboard. This allows for proactive maintenance, maximising operational efficiency. The software also improves usability by offering access to a large material database and simplifying exhaust performance settings to save time. Ruby® laser software automates exhaust control and alerts users when filters are full, protecting components and maintaining efficiency. Together, the Atmos exhaust systems and Ruby® software deliver a powerful solution for maintaining optimal laser performance

In conclusion, prioritising predictive maintenance is key to unlocking the full potential of your laser machine investment. By following the guidelines of regular cleaning, creating ideal operating conditions and employing an efficient exhaust system, businesses can maximise their laser machine's efficiency and lifespan. To additionally optimise the service life of your laser, Trotec offers a variety of service contracts or maintenance options. Certified service technicians check the system, set it up and give tips on handling. If necessary, maintenance and wear parts are replaced. Invest in smart maintenance today to secure tomorrow's success.

Find out more about our tailored service packages                                                        Learn more about how to clean and remove dust from your laser machine