Introduction; General Information - Omtech POLAR+ User Manual

2 Introduction

2.1 General Information

This manual is the designated user guide for the installation, setup, safe operation, and maintenance
of your cabinet laser engraver. It is divided into several chapters covering general information,
safety instructions, installation steps, operation and adjustment 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 excited
carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ), catalyzing nitrogen (N ₂ ), and insulating gases, reflecting that beam off three
mirrors and through a focus lens, and using this focused light to etch designs into certain substrates.
The active laser is invisible to the human eye. This device should never be used while any cover or access
panel is open to avoid potentially permanent injury. When its pass-through is used, care should be taken
to avoid possible reflective rays.
The laser tube typically travels along the Y axis during engraving. The first mirror is fixed near the left end
of the laser tube, the second mirror is fixed nearby, and the third mirror is attached to the laser head that
travels along the X axis. The first and second mirrors are located within protective housing but, because
dust is generated by the engraving process, the 2nd mirror's window, the 3rd mirror, and the focus lens
require frequent cleaning.
With low-intensity use, the provided laser tube has an average lifespan of around 11,000 hours
before requiring replacement. However, constantly running your laser above 70% of its maximum
rated power can significantly shorten its service life. It is recommended to use settings from
10%–70% of the maximum rated power to enjoy optimal performance and longevity.
The cover's viewing window naturally absorbs most reflected beams from the high infrared laser
but it is NOT otherwise protected against it. Protective eyewear should ALWAYS be used by
EVERYONE present when the laser is active. Such eyewear should be at least OD6 at the laser's
main wavelength of 10.6 microns.
The integrated water-cooling system must be used with this engraver to dissipate the heat
produced by the laser tube. Similarly, the provided exhaust system must be used in conjunction with
an external vent or dedicated air purifier to remove the dust and gases produced by the engraving
process and ensure compliance with laws and regulations for workplace and environmental air
quality. NEVER operate the engraver without both of these systems operating properly.
Note that this device broadcasts signals in the radio spectrum as part of its wireless connectivity.
Special shielding or equipment may be necessary to minimize interference with emergency &
licensed broadcasting, particularly in residential areas.
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