3.1: Now it is time to run a test to determine power settings for cutting and engraving.

3.2: Place the acrylic sheet in the Universal laser system with the 3M adhesive side down and focus the laser on a spot well outside the area where you will be cutting and engraving.

3.3: Adjust the system settings as necessary so that you vector cut cleanly through the acrylic and raster engrave it to a depth of approximately 1/64”–1/32”.

3.4: We were able to cut and engrave the acrylic satisfactorily using a 50-watt laser system and a 1.5 lens with the following settings:

Tip: We recommend that you use Universal’s optional air-assist cone or backsweep when cutting acrylic. Air-assist blows a jet of air across the area being cut that helps to suppress flames and keeps the laser optics cool and clean.

3.5: When you have the system settings adjusted correctly, cut and engrave the acrylic sheet as shown in Graphic 3.

3.6: Graphic 4 shows the vector cut pieces that will be used to create the dimensional look of the sign. Place these pieces aside for now. Be sure to save all of the cut pieces for later use.

3.7: Graphic 5 shows the base of the sign. The deeply engraved areas will “lock in” the vector-cut letters and graphics.

3.8: Graphic 6 shows close-up detail of the three vector-cut pieces that make up the letter “A”.

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