Acrylic Jig
![laser engraved data plates in the acrylic jig](/static_processed/f940fa5e6682a9a40661c3a4decebfbe/.jpeg?{"image":"https://backend.troteclaser.com/static/images/knowledge/diy-samples/acrylic-jig/Finished_product_in_jig.jpeg","edits":{"resize":{"width":1280,"height":640,"fit":"cover"}}})
Custom jigs are incredibly useful during mass production of laser engraved products as they provide repeatability and enhance productivity. Learn how to create your own custom jig, from 3mm thick TroGlass, in this step-by-step tutorial.
Preparation
Required Material
- TroGlass 3mm
Note: You can use any material to produce this jig.
Machine used
- Speedy 360 80 watt with a 2" lens
Any laser machine from the Speedy laser engraver series can be used for this application sample.
Tip
We recommend using a measuring caliper in order to measure the item that the jig is being created for. If you use acrylic material, ensure that your laser bed is completely sealed off to create a nice and clean edge.
Step by step
Step 1: Import design file
You can use the template we have provided or, alternatively, you can create your own unique design. Send it to the laser machine with the recommended laser parameters. Note: the parameters may vary slightly depending on the laser machine used and the available laser power.
Print settings:
| Process mode | Resolution | Cut line |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 500dpi | None |
| Halftone | Others |
|---|---|
| Colour | None |
Step 2: Laser process
It is important to ensure that the material you decide to use for this application is processed correctly. Masking off your laser bed, activating the exhaust system and/or selecting the correct laser table are important considerations that should be actioned accordingly.
Laser Parameters:
| Colour | Process | Power (%) | Speed (%) | ppi/Hz |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red | Cut | 90 | 0.40 | 5000 |
| Passes | Air Assist | Z-Offset | Advanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ON | - | - |
Tip:
Standard laser parameters from JobControl were implemented for this application.
![assemble acrylic jig](/static_processed/bfdd2e8466a48d2fe2aaa5073bc4e155/.jpeg?{"image":"https://backend.troteclaser.com/static/images/knowledge/diy-samples/acrylic-jig/assemble-acrylic-jig.jpeg","edits":{"resize":{"width":650,"fit":"cover"}}} "assemble-acrylic-jig.jpeg")
Step 3: Post-processing
Adhere the two materials together by using glue or a premanufactured material with an adhesive backing.
![](/static_processed/b2ec6aa144c6b857cf32bae2399591d7/templates-for-dog-tags-1e1.jpg?{"image":"https://backend.troteclaser.com/static/images/knowledge/diy-samples/acrylic-jig/templates-for-dog-tags-1e1.jpg","edits":{"resize":{"width":640,"fit":"cover"}}})
Inspirations
- Jigs are highly versatile creations as they can be used for a wide range of different products, including dog tags, ink pens, data plates, part making and more. When it comes to laser engraving irregular-shaped items, this can often be quite challenging and time-consuming. Using a jig will provide repeatability, accurancy and interchangeability, making your life a whole lot simpler!
![](/static_processed/666fff4d72dd3cc08ac610849af36edf/laser-engraver-speedy-400-left.png?{"image":"https://backend.troteclaser.com/static/images/Laser_Machines/Speedy_Series/laser-engraver-speedy-400-left.png","edits":{"extract":{"top":142,"left":497,"width":933,"height":393},"resize":{"width":650,"fit":"cover"}}})
![](/static_processed/e13c93d5f34c84a898cdaaf75a5e9905/contact-ferdinand.jpg?{"image":"https://backend.troteclaser.com/static/images/contact/contact-ferdinand.jpg","edits":{"resize":{"width":194,"height":194,"fit":"cover"}}})
