How to Choose the Right Engraver
The art of engraving has existed in some form for centuries. The technique of cutting images, lettering and numbering into surfaces has been a part of every culture worldwide. Engraved creations can be as simple as a classically shaped heart with initials in it to some amazingly complex and intricate layouts and images. Engraving still enjoys great popularity among hobbyists and is an essential part of many industries in the business world. There are engraving tool sets for every imaginable form of engraving. Laser engravers are the best and most versatile. Choosing the right one requires some thought and research.
Instructions
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Decide what kind of engraving you most want to do. Consider what materials you want to be able to cut and the cost of those materials. Investigate the ease of use for the engravers you compare. Verify how much ongoing maintenance and frequency of repairs the engraver requires. Look at the customer service and product support history of the company you buy from.
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Lasers have a wide role of applications among modern technologies. Read the product description to check the power of the laser the engraver has. Do not just buy the most powerful laser, but buy the most versatile. Look at the listed materials the laser is designed to cut, since that is an indication of how adjustable its laser power is.
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Look over the different kinds of laser machines to see how easy to use they are. Compare the function button locations of the lasers; make sure they are easy to find, and look for safety features of each. Review the software available for the laser engraver before you buy it, and match the software to the jobs you want it to do.
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Clamping material to be laser-engraved can be hazardous. Compare the line of contact-free and abrasion-free lasers. Look for the kind that does not require the material being engraved to be clamped or secured in place. Buy only a laser engraver that does not have any moving or dangerous part exposure to the user.
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Purchase a laser that touts its edging and detail capacity. Hunt for one with the maximum available line widths and types. Think of your engraver as your own set of drawing pencils or paint brushes, and buy for how you have learned to engrave. Get an engraver that is the most adjustable in laser power.
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Quality laser engravers are not cheap, but they do the best, most precise work. Set a budgeted amount to pay for your laser engraver. Allow $8 to $10,000 for a top-quality, safe laser with 20-watt power. Be prepared to pay serious money for quality, higher wattage. Keep in mind that higher wattage does mean faster, higher engraving quality, but it also means a higher price. Resist the urge to buy a cheaper, less safe version.
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Be sure to buy a vacuum system with your laser. Avoid having to constantly clean up after every use. Buy an exhaust system that will handle the dust. Make sure the company who sells you the laser is a company that will stand behind its product.
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Tips & Warnings
Look for a used laser engraver in good shape to save money.
Exhaust systems also help the laser to run more effectively.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images laser image by serge simo from Fotolia.com clamps image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com money stack image by Bruce Shippee from Fotolia.com
