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Laser engraved and laser cut wooden airplane construction kit

Let your imagination soar with an airplane model made from Trotec's veneered wood!

Step-by-step instructions and a downloadable template are available below.

 

Preparation

Materials
Trotec Laser and Accessories

NOTE: Any laser from the Speedy series can be used for this project.

Tips
  • The Aluminum Cutting Grid Table minimizes beam reflections, which can form undesired markings on your workpiece
  • The 1.5" lens is ideal for producing very fine engravings and cuts
Wooden Airplane

PDF

Download now

Step by step

Step 1

Step 1: Configure the Design and Send the File to JobControl®

Create your own design, or use our template (available below) and adjust the graphics as needed. Use the following JobControl® Process Options in the Print menu:

Important!

Our template has been designed for 1/8-inch-thick veneered wood. Adapt the sizes of the connecting pieces and slots in accordance with your material's thickness.

Process mode Resolution Cut line
Standard 500 dpi none
Halftone Others
color enhanced geometries,
inner geometries first
Step 2

Step 2: Process the Veneered Wood Sheet

Place the wood sheet on your laser's work area. Cover the remaining space with material (e.g., standard printing paper) to maximize the exhaust's suction on the workpiece. This trick prevents the wooden sheet from moving out of place when being processed.

Open the JobControl® Materials database window and enter the parameters indicated below.

NOTE: The exact parameters may vary depending on your laser system and its wattage.

Laser Parameters

Color Process Power (%) Speed (%) ppi/Hz
black engraving CO2 70 50 500
red cut CO2 100 1 1000
Passes Air Assist Z-Offset Advanced
1 on +6 High quality
1 on - -

TIPS

  • Click Here to download the recommended JobControl® parameters
  • The higher the Z-offset, the darker the resulting engravings will be. However, the engraving will not be as fine. For this application, we recommend a Z-offset value of +4 to a maximum of +6 mm.
Step 3

Step 3: Clean the Finished Pieces and Assemble the Model

Clean the surfaces and edges of the cutouts using a damp, lint-free cloth.

Finally, assemble the airplane by fitting the pieces together. Use wood glue if necessary.

Your model airplane is now ready!

TIPS

  • To allow the propeller to move, do not glue the propeller or secure the wooden washer too tightly.

Inspiration

  • If you want to give the model as a gift, you can engrave the name of the recipient on fuselage or wings.
  • Add a pop of colour to your airplane by cutting the wings from 1/8" TroGlass Color Gloss.
  • Create different types of aircraft: jets, helicopters, gliders — and even hot air balloons!

Speedy series
 The ideal laser engraver and cutter for personalization.

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Questions about applications or settings?
We're happy to advise you from A for Air assist to Z for z-offset.

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