Universal Laser Systems X-600 Safety, Installation, Operation, And Basic Maintenance Manual page 49

Engraving mirrored acrylic is similar to engraving regular acrylic. The idea is to engrave through the
mirrored backing enough to begin to penetrate into the acrylic. Engraving deeply will cause a crusty
residue to form just like with non-mirrored acrylic. A double image will appear if engraving on the front
side of the mirror. It is not necessary to mask the backside when engraving because the mirrored
backing shields the acrylic from smoke damage. To cut mirrored acrylic, it might be necessary to
remove all original masking, re-mask with transfer tape, and dampen the tape with water from a spray
bottle. Next, place the acrylic in the laser with the mirrored surface facing upwards and elevate at
least 1/2 inch above the table. The laser beam will not reflect off of the mirrored surface because it is
absorbed by the acrylic first. Sometimes cutting the acrylic from the backside will cause the mirrored
backing to distort and crack from the intense heat required to cut. If the combination of engraving and
cutting is desired, our suggestion is to engrave the backing, unmasked, remove the acrylic, mask both
sides with transfer tape, flip the acrylic over, dampen, elevate, re-focus, and cut from the front side.
When paint filling the engraved area, make sure to use an acrylic-based paint or paint that does not
contain acetone or alcohol, as these chemicals will crack the acrylic. Water based paints also work
very well. Since the mirrored backing serves as a masking, it is not necessary to mask the backside
before engraving.
Acrylic is extremely flammable. Do not leave the laser system unattended when cutting or
engraving.
MATERIAL SETTINGS GUIDE
COMMENTS
Section 5-7