New Maker - Lasercutting?

[Natasha Loydell]

Hi,  I'm a local graduate artist looking to join Makerspace, and wondering if I joined if there is any kind of training/assistance available on different equipment? I've been lasercutting some artworks with the help of a technician in one of the universities on quite an old lasercutter and running system, so want to continue making a run of editions of a work but am unsure if my files etc and knowledge will apply to any/all lasercutters. I also have some access needs and was wondering what the space is like?

May try and come along this evening but am based in Newcastle and not always super mobile due to chronic illness so may depend on whether I can face public transport tonight to work out getting there.

But any info appreciated! Hope it's ok to post this here, thanks you.

(Natasha)

[Dan Nixon]

Hi Natasha,

There is an induction process for the laser cutter, then intention is that this is enough to use the machine safely on your own but not much more, however I'm happy to offer help when I'm around.

In general any 2D design file will work or can be made to work.

Illustrator (.ai), DXF or SVG are preferred.

Accessibility wise, we are not wheelchair accessible but the main workshop is mostly on street level, we have another workshop in the buildings basement which is down some stairs.

All the best,

Dan

[Michael Quinn]

Hi

Whats the size of the laser cutter bed?

As in the largest piece that can be cut.

Cheers

Mike

[Dan Nixon]

I can't remember the exact measurements, but approximately 580x380mm.

Materials with thickness <= 3mm can be slightly larger.

All the best,

Dan