Did I damage my laser?

Accessories J Tech Laser
1

I recently got the 44w laser. This thing is a beast, I’ve been having a lot of fun with it. However, I think I may have really screwed up. I did a 15-minute etch at 30% power and noticed that it started out well, but the quality got worse by the end of the burn. That’s when I realized I forgot to turn on the air-assist pump. My machine is in my unheated garage and it’s been well below zero lately so I haven’t really had a chance to get back out and try another burn. Is it likely that I fogged the lens, and if so, is this repairable?

2

Yes, you most likely destroyed the lens in two ways, thermal shock and burning in the lens with debris from not using air assist. Contact JTECH directly and they will be able to sell you the replacement lens.

2 Likes
3

Thank you. I was hoping to hear something different but lesson learned. :frowning:

2 Likes
4

Try cleaning the lens before spending money.

3 Likes
5

Yep, I contacted JTech support and they gave me detailed instructions on how to clean it. Their support is outstanding.

2 Likes
6

Update: After following the instructions sent by Shane from JTech I was able to remove the lens and clean it. Luckily it wasn’t cracked. So, the only permanent damage was to my ego. I hope this will be the last time I forget to turn the dang air pump on.

IMG_7707
IMG_77071385×1099 253 KB

Fogged

IMG_7708
IMG_77081404×1002 279 KB

After cleaning

3 Likes
7

You might want to email shane the pictures. There’s still a large mark where the laser goes. Ask shane if that’s normal.

3 Likes
8

So reading this and all of a sudden I realise, hey, wait, my laser is in a drawer in my unheated shop! :scream: :cold_face: Raced down and brought my precious into the warm boosom of my home where it shall remain until spring.:roll_eyes:

3 Likes
9

Yeah, from now on mine will be resting comfortably in the house util spring… unless I need to burn something but I’ll keep it warm until I’m ready to turn it on. A large part of the reason I posted all this is so others can learn from my “head up the exit portal” move.

2 Likes
10

I agree. That ‘image’ shouldn’t be in the lens. You might try cleaning the backside if that’s where the residual image is located

1 Like