Introduction; General Information - Omtech USB3020B User Manual

1 Introduction

1.1 General Information

This manual is the designated user guide for 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.
Your laser engraver works by emitting a powerful laser beam from a glass tube filled with insulating carbon dioxide
(CO₂). The laser beam reflects off three mirrors and passes through a focus lens, after which the focused light can etch
designs into certain substrates. The first mirror is fixed near the end of the laser tube, the second mirror travels along the
machine's Y axis, and the third mirror is attached to the laser head that travels along the X-axis. Because some dust from
the engraving process settles on the mirrors, they require frequent cleaning. They also require periodic readjustment
using their attached positioning screws to maintain proper laser path alignment. A water cooling system—typically a
pump or chiller—must be used with this engraver to dissipate the heat produced by the laser tube. Similarly, an exhaust
system—typically either an external vent or a dedicated air purifier—must be used to remove the dust and gases
produced by the engraving process.
With low intensity use, the provided laser tube has an average lifespan around 2000 working hours before requiring
replacement. The provided power supply should also last around 2000 hours under similar conditions. However,
constantly running your laser above 70% of its maximum rated power can significantly shorten their service lives.
It is recommended to use 10–70% of the full rated capacity to enjoy optimal performance and longevity.
Note that this is a high-voltage device and, as a safety precaution, it is recommended to only touch its components with
one hand at a time during use.
Note that the active laser is invisible to the human eye. Never operate this device while any cover is open to avoid
potentially permanent injury.
Note also that the water cooling system and exhaust system are both absolutely essential to the safe use of this device.
Never operate the engraver without both of these systems working correctly. Cooling water should always be kept clean
and around room temperature, and the exhaust system should always comply with all applicable laws and regulations for
the workplace and environmental air quality.
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