The chiller failed and the laser tube burnt out. It will be non-operational until a new tube can be ordered and installed.
The laser tube requires a constant supply of chilled water to remove the heat generated by the lasing process. The tube connecting the pump to the laser cutter had slipped off inside the chiller. Too much heat is generated, tube cracks, no more pew.
I also suspect it’s seen a lot more use than the previous tube did. I can’t follow that up with stats but it just seems busier and we do have more members. t does make me wonder about tracking use down the road so we could look at metered models or even getting another laser if needed. That’s a QGM discussion though for sure.
Not trying to stir anything up but, perhaps it’s time to starting thinking about and saving up for an air-cooled laser cutter.
I realize that an Epilog or Trotec are too $$$$ for the hackspace budget. I’ve been working with a Universal laser for the past few months and I’ve been impressed. It’s been running 4 to 6 hours per day without a hiccup. I have no idea what they cost other much less than an Epilog or Trotec.
Can we upgrade to a “Fiber Laser” (Solid State Laser)? They operate at higher efficiencies => Less Heat Generated, Lower Cooling requirements. This is my layman’s view of the laser technologies.
Any idea about the costs? Couple of years back they were expensive, how are they now?
The replacement tube, a water flow sensor, and a spare lens have been ordered, shipped, and picked up. It will likely be a few more days to replace the tube and install the water flow protection.
100% grateful for all those on the laser committee. Feel free to let me know if there’s anything I can contribute now or in future to maintenance, materials or training.
The replacement laser tube has been installed and some improvements have been made to the chiller, including the addition of a water flow/pressure sensor.
The optics were also aligned and cleaned, and the damaged focus lens was replaced.
Please note that the lid is still not functioning properly and does not remain open on its own.
The laser cutter is now available again for use. This tube is a from a different manufacturer, so you may need yo adjust the power and speed settings to which you are accustomed.