Laser Cutter Slot and Tab Clearance Test (3mm materials)

Slot and tab clearance test cut for laser cutters and engravers processing 3mm thick materials
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updated September 19, 2022

Description

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This clearance test shown in the video above was originally intended to be a kerf test (as can be seen on the labelling) for laser cutters and engravers. The tab dimensions are 15mm x 3mm. The slot dimensions incrementally change from 15mm x 3mm and then increase by 0.1mm increments in one direction and decrease by 0.1mm in the other direction.

As described in the video, some laser beam patterns are not perfectly circular or square and the resulting cuts may be slightly different in the x or y axis. By cutting slots and tabs in both the x and the y orientation, they can be measured and test fit to see if you have to compensate when designing your slots and tabs. 

However, as I also described in the video, without having first compensated for variations in the material thickness, machine motion system accuracy, and any offsets applied by the tool path generating software, this is not really a kerf test. It is more of just a general fit and clearance test since the kerf is only one of the many variables not accounted for.

For the XTool D1 Pro that I was using, producing tabs and slots that were size on size resulted in the best for my machine.

DXF and SVG files have been included depending on the type of file that your software accepts. XTool Creative Space will work either either type. 

If you are looking for products or items I've used with the D1 Pro in this video, see below. As an Amazon Associate may I earn from qualifying purchases (at no extra cost to you): 

XTOOL D1 Pro 10W: 

https://amzn.to/3PTRtf9

XTOOL D1 Pro 20W

https://amzn.to/3qNgZsd

CPAP Hose: 

https://amzn.to/3x4ffOJ

Laser Proof Silicone Work Surface Mat (20" x 28") 

https://amzn.to/3zDyMG7

Laser Proof Silicone Work Surface Mat (23.5" x 31.5") 

https://amzn.to/3A0Fzv1

You can also find my fume extractor modification for the D1 Pro 10W here:

https://embracemaking.com/products/xtool-d1-pro-10w-fume-extraction-nozzle

D1 Pro 20W version here:

https://embracemaking.com/products/xtool-d1-pro-20w-fume-extraction-nozzle

 

 

 

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