When you use different parameter settings with laser processing, you can achieve different colour intensities. Learn how you can use the greyscale matrix to quickly and easily determine the desired colour intensity.
Greyscale matrix for determining the ideal laser parameters
Determination of parameters with the greyscale matrix
The test matrix we have provided includes 100 different shades of grey. The appropriate parameters can be determined by simply using the Relief function in the JobControl® printer driver. The laser output is also adjusted according to the black tone. For example, a 100% black box is engraved with 100% of the set output. When a 50% black box is engraved, 50% of the set output can be used. The laser output is linear to the black tones, therefore the desired colour tone can be selected using the test matrix. The corresponding values can then be directly transferred to the parameter database.
Note that the speed of the machine always remains constant.
Paste your desired image into your selected graphics program. Set the process type to Relief in the printer settings of the JobControl® printer driver. Select the resolution according to the material that you would like to test. For example, in the case of wood, a resolution between 33 DPI and 500 DPI should be selected.
Tip:
For a laser output on a machine of 100 watts or more, start with P=80% output and V=100% speed. For a laser output on a machine between 40 and 100 watts, start with P=100% output and V=100% speed. For a laser output on a machine below 40 watts, start with P=100% output and V=50 - 80% speed.
Greyscale matrix
Selecting the laser parameters
Select your desired colour tone from the 100 different parameters of the greyscale matrix. Save it in your JobControl® database.
The selected parameter for P in this example is 80+7. That is 87% of the preset P-value (output).
Greyscale matrix on wood
The test matrix on wood shows different colour intensities from white to dark brown. As a result, different colour intensities can be easily and quickly determined.
Tip:
To achieve even darker engraving results, set the Z-offset in the plus range and repeat the test process.
Further information
Need more help?
Contact the Trotec service hotline where top qualified and motivated laser experts will assist you with any questions or problems.
