So now that we have got everything up and running (see Part 1 and Part 2), it’s time for the exciting part, getting some results. Before we get into that I thought it would be worth doing a quick comparison of the two different software packages. I have created a video that shows the same file (except one as a .dxf instead of .svg, as the benbox software can’t handle .svg files), on the same hardware, just with the different software being used.
As you can see from the video and the photo, the difference is pretty significant. The Benbox software took approximately 5mins to finish, whereas the LaserWeb software was just under a minute. Admittedly the Benbox copy was probably a bit deeper engraving, but five times longer is a lot. The next point to notice is the difference in quality. The LaserWeb software gives a much clearer cut and is consistent on most of the lines, whereas the Benbox software seems to engrave some sections deeper than others. This is not confined to this design either, I have had the same issue in the past with other designs, the straight lines seem to engraver deeper than the curved ones. Overall I think this has been well and truly worth my time.
What have I made?
Now I guess I can show off a bit with a few of the things I have made. I’m at the age of my life where everyone seems to having babies, so I have made few name signs, one for my own month old daughter, and one for my good friend at the fussy fodmapper blog (https://fussyfodmapper.com/). Then I have made a few stickers and stencils from contact paper. These have come out remarkably well, but the only issue is that the paper is PVC (found this out after I cut them). PVC, when laser cut, apparently releases chlorine gas, which will corrode aluminum, and is not real good for your health, so try to avoid doing it. I might take my chances given they are pretty small designs, but I will keep looking for something better to cut.
Awesome Steve, as a stair builder, my next “I want” was a cnc with a router head and a 3.6×1.8 table $big money then 25 yrs ago. The 3d printers are becoming interesting, and particularly the materials that can be fused.
A CNC router is on the list of projects to do. I’m thinking probably more 0.6×0.6 table as I don’t have enough space in the shed for anything too big. 3D printers are fun, good for proto-typing and making one of parts, especially now you can do metals, but can’t see them taking over the production world any time soon.