Trotec Laser Inc.
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Phone: (734) 927-6300
E-Mail: usa@troteclaser.com
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Laminates
TroLase - the allrounder among engraving materials
We show you how to optimally use our Trotec laminates to achieve perfect results in this Tips and Tricks. We also provide you with tested laser parameters for the engraving material.
Which applications can be perfectly realized with TroLase?
Create any kind of sign
Laminates are particularly well suited to creating all kinds of signs. When the cover layer is removed by the laser beam, the other colored carrier layer appears. That way both colors stand out from each other and the engraving is visible. Combining multiple laminates on top of each other is also recommended for creating special effects and individualizing your sign. There’s no limits to your design! For example, create a name tag from TroLase. Watch this application video for inspiration.
Easy creation with two-toned stickers
Two-toned stickers can be optimally created by processing TroLase Foils and Thins. This happens through the so-called kiss-cut in which the upper adhesive foil is cut but the layer underneath is not. The top layer is thus “kissed” by the laser beam but not separated. This allows the sticker to be quickly and easily pulled off, the adhesive foil is protected and the sticker adheres perfectly to the surface where it is applied.
Processing and application information for TroLase materials
Selecting the correct table
The best possible processing of engraving material already begins with the selection of the optimal table. We recommend using the aluminum grid table or the acrylic cutting grid table. To optimize the vacuum, simply cover the free surfaces. That fixes the laminate in the right place during laser engraving.
Engraving direction
Engraving laser materials from bottom to top is recommended since the exhaust hose is above (in back of) the machine. It helps ensure that the already lasered areas remain clean and the core layer is not discolored. This is especially relevant when processing laminates with a light carrier layer and dark cover layer.
Resolution from 500 dpi
Choosing the correct resolution is also crucial for the results with material, graphic and processing time all playing an important role. For processing TroLase, a medium resolution of 500 dpi is recommend for achieving optimal results. It allows the finer details in the workpiece to be engraved. However, don’t forget: the higher the resolution, the longer the processing time.
Use the 2” lens
Our experts recommend the 2” lens for engraving laminates. Using this allows both small, delicate details in the workpiece to be worked as well as engrave large surfaces in top quality. The reason for this is that the universal lens has a broader focal length but is still small enough to engrave the details. Thicker laminates can also be cut with the focus length.
Use the large nozzle
For processing TroLase, use the large nozzle. That makes a weaker dose of Air Assist so that the freshly melted material doesn’t cool off too fast. If the Air Assist is too strong, the engraving takes on a light gray effect. A moderate Air Assist is also necessary for the life span of the lens since smaller dirt particles do not reach the lens on the air flow.
Laser engraving for large surfaces: De-focusing recommended
For laser engraving large surface areas with laser, intentional de-focusing is usually better suited than processing the material “in focus”. Set the z offset to between 2 and 7 mm, depending on the power of your machine and the graphic, in order to achieve a more even result. By de-focusing, the grooves are avoided and the end result has a smoother surface. The lens plays a role here as well: for large surfaces, it’s best to use lenses with larger focal lengths. For very fine details (e.g., a 4 point font), we recommend not using any z offset.
Cleaning the material
In general: if the parameters are optimally set, cleaning should be very minor. In most cases, simply a damp cloth to wipe off the smolder since only minimal residues are created. If more substantial residues are unexpectedly visible on the product, we recommend cleaning with alcohol-free cleaner. After that, nothing more will stand in the way of your brilliant result.
Determining the ideal laser parameters
Our experts have tested and collected the optimal parameters for processing TroLase materials. Achieve perfect results with our laminates using your laser engraver.
We recommend the grayscale matrix for determining the laser parameters for new materials and product groups. It will allow you to find the ideal parameters easily.
TroLase laminates are ideal for interior and exterior applications, for individualizing and personalizing.
TroLase laminates are perfect for interior and exterior use. The materials can be perfectly individualized and personalized. We offer one or multi-layered laser materials, a large selection of colors and a variety of material thicknesses. They are also available with self-adhesive reverse sides and special textured surfaces suitable for applications in challenging environments. Discover the diverse world of the TroLase product family.
