Epilog Fusion M2 32 Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Epilog Manuals
  4. Printer
  5. Fusion M2 32
  6. Manual

Epilog Fusion M2 32 Manual

Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
Register your system now for driver update notifications
FREE
EPILOGLASER.COM/REGISTER
and
files!
FUSION M2 32 / 40
LASER SYSTEM MANUAL | MODEL 13000 / 14000
Technical Support: +1 (303) 215-9171
Knowledge Base: support.epiloglaser.com
System Registration: epiloglaser.com/register
Driver/Firmware: epiloglaser.com/fusion-drivers
UPDATED MAY 2018 | EPILOGLASER.COM/MANUALS

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the Fusion M2 32 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Andre Bussieres
February 24, 2025

laser not accepting print jobs how do I fix this

0

Related Manuals for Epilog Fusion M2 32

Summary of Contents for Epilog Fusion M2 32

  • Page 1 FUSION M2 32 / 40 LASER SYSTEM MANUAL | MODEL 13000 / 14000 Technical Support: +1 (303) 215-9171 Register your system now for driver update notifications Knowledge Base: support.epiloglaser.com FREE EPILOGLASER.COM/REGISTER files! System Registration: epiloglaser.com/register Driver/Firmware: epiloglaser.com/fusion-drivers UPDATED MAY 2018 | EPILOGLASER.COM/MANUALS...

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Mac Driver Installation ................................32 Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager Epilog Job Manager Instructions.............................37 How to Install the Epilog Job Manager ............................37 Trouble Shooting Job Manager Installation ..........................39 Important Epilog Job Manager Notes ............................40 Using the Epilog Job Manager ..............................40 Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard™...
  • Page 4 TABLE OF CONTENTS Joystick ....................................74 Job Storage: Temporary Memory ............................75 Section 8: Quick Start Guide Artwork Setup ..................................77 Setting a Vector Cutting Line ..............................78 Resolution ....................................79 Piece and Page Size ................................83 Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance Reduce Fire Risk with a Clean Laser ............................85 Cleaning the Optics .................................85 Cleaning and Lubricating the Bearing Rails ..........................87 Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum ..............................88...
  • Page 5 TABLE OF CONTENTS Acrylic ....................................162 Anodized Aluminum ................................163 Brass - Painted ..................................164 Glass ....................................165 Notary Seals: Delrin ................................166 Plastic Engraving/Cutting ..............................167 Rubber Stamps ..................................168 Wood ....................................172 Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques ............................175 Metal Annealing .................................175 Metal Etching ..................................175 Metal Polishing ..................................176 Plastic Marking .................................176 Section 15: Specifications Fusion Laser Technical Specifications ...........................179 Compatibility ..................................180...
  • Page 6 - iv -...

  • Page 7: Fire Warning

    • Be prepared with a fire extinguisher. Always keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher.

  • Page 8: Introduction

    You will be ready to use the Epilog Laser system as soon as you read the first few sections. Then you can refer to topics in the remaining sections, as you work.

  • Page 9: Section 1: Safety

    Laser Safety Laser Safety The Epilog Model 13000/14000 Laser System is a Class 2 laser product, as defined in International Standard IEC 60825-1. The Epilog Model 13000/14000 complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, the Federal Performance Standards for Light- Emitting Products, except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice No.

  • Page 10: Electrical Safety

    Class I. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that the installation and operation of the Epilog Model 13000/14000 Laser System is performed in accordance with all applicable laws.

  • Page 11: Fire Warning

    • Be prepared with a fire extinguisher. Always keep a properly maintained and inspected fire extinguisher on hand. Epilog recommends a Halotron fire extinguisher or a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. The Halotron extinguishers are more expensive than a dry chemical, but offer certain advantages should you ever need to use an extinguisher.

  • Page 12: Safety Features And Regulatory Compliance

    Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance Epilog has incorporated specific safety features into the Model 13000/14000 Laser System in order to meet the requirements of 21 CFR 1040 and the International Standard IEC 60825-1. These safety features include: •...
  • Page 13 SECTION 1: SAFETY Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance Descriptive Label: This label identifies the classification of the Model 13000/14000 in accordance with 21 CFR 1040.10 and IEC 60825-1. It is located on the left rear of the machine’s cabinet, below the Warning Logotype.
  • Page 14 SECTION 1: SAFETY Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance The following diagrams show the location of each specific label. - 8 -...
  • Page 15 SECTION 1: SAFETY Safety Features and Regulatory Compliance - 9 -...

  • Page 16: Do's And Don'ts

    SECTION 1: SAFETY Do’s and Don’ts Do’s and Don’ts Don’ts Do Not Run the Laser Unvented: Never operate the machine without a properly operating vent to the outside or to a filtration unit! Most material will only produce an irritating smoke when engraved. Some materials, including but not limited to paint, varnish, composition board and plastics, produce compounds that can be harmful if concentrated.

  • Page 17: Section 2: Getting Started

    1. Unpacking the Laser System Setting up your Epilog Laser System is easy to do! If you’ve ever installed a paper printer, this is only slightly more difficult. The following information will help you understand the entire system and how it works.

  • Page 18: Choose Where To Locate The System

    Cooling Requirements and Operating Temperatures All Epilog Laser systems use air-cooled laser tubes. Laser technology is such that the laser tubes generate a lot of excess heat and the tubes must be cooled for proper operation. There are cooling fans located at the back of the laser. The fans and vents should always be clear of restrictions and should never be covered.

  • Page 19: Connecting The Exhaust

    Please note that this is also a recommendation and not a requirement because factors such as length and type of tubing from the Epilog laser to the exhaust fan and from the exhaust fan to the outside of the building can produce significant losses on the true amount of air that is drawn from the Epilog laser.
  • Page 20 SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED 3. Connecting the Exhaust Epilog Exhaust/Filter Connections There are two 4” (102 mm) ports attached to the back of the laser system. Attach your ducting to the machine as shown Roof or Exterior Wall Exhaust Blower 4”...

  • Page 21: Connecting Electrical Power

    You are now ready to connect your computer to the laser. The following connections can be used: 1. USB only connection: You can use the USB port for the print driver and Epilog Job Manager. Multiple laser systems cannot be operated from a single computer through the USB connections. If you are using the USB connection, you...

  • Page 22: Set The Fusion's Ip Address

    Ethernet port on your computer. The Epilog Dashboard is the print driver that allows your computer to talk to your Epilog Laser system when either the USB or Ethernet Crossover cables are connected. The driver is included in the accessories kit on a CD-ROM or on our website at www.epiloglaser.com.
  • Page 23 SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED 7. Set the Fusion’s IP Address 8. Set Up TCP/IP Address in the Most Epilog users will use the IP Address of 192.168.003.004, which is what we use in Computer this manual. Go to your Network and Sharing Center in your computer’s Control Panel.

  • Page 24: Sign Up For Driver Updates And Register Your System

    SECTION 2: GETTING STARTED 9. Sign Up for Driver Updates and Register Your System 4. If you do not have an eView Camera Module installed, select Use the following IP Address. Type in the following IP Address: 192.168.3.3. This number is not an error; the last digit of the IP address in this window must be different than the IP address you set in the laser.

  • Page 25: Section 3: Driver Installation

    5. Enter the IP Address to match the IP Address you set at the Fusion laser in “Setting the IP Address” on page 16. Most Epilog users will use the IP 2. Select the Dashboard Driver. Address of 192.168.3.4, which is what we use in this document.
  • Page 26 SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION Windows 7: Ethernet Installation 6. Select Custom and then Settings. 9. Click Have Disk. 10. Click Browse and go to the folder where you saved the driver and click Open. (The default location is C:/ 7. Set Protocol to LPR. This is a very important step. fusion_drivers.) Your download time will increase significantly if LPR is not selected.
  • Page 27 SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION Windows 7: Ethernet Installation 13. Click Next. 16. If you see this screen, click Install. 17. Click Next. 14. Click Replace the current driver if requested, then click Next. 18. Click Finish and your driver is installed. 15.

  • Page 28: Windows 7: Usb Installation

    5. After a short wait you will see another small window you are using Windows 7. 1. Insert the Epilog driver install disc into your computer (or download the files from the website). One of the following screens will appear. For the that indicates the installation was not successful.
  • Page 29 SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION Windows 7: USB Installation 7. Right click on the Fusion, Zing, Mini/Helix, or 10. Click Change Settings. FiberMark icon. Then click Properties. 11. Click the Driver tab. 8. Select the Hardware tab. 9. Select the device EpilogEngraver then click 12.
  • Page 30 18. If you see this screen, click Install. 14. Use the Browse key to direct your computer to your disc drive that contains the Epilog driver disc that you inserted earlier in this process. (You can also download the latest driver from epiloglaser.com/...

  • Page 31: Windows 8 And 10: Ethernet Installation

    Click Add a local printer or network printer with manual settings. Click Next. You can also download the latest driver from epiloglaser.com/tech-support/epilog-drivers. htm. Go to Devices and Printers on your computer and click Add a Printer to start the process.
  • Page 32 6. Enter the IP Address to match the IP Address you set at the Fusion laser in “Setting the IP Address” on page 16. Most Epilog users will use the IP Address of 192.168.3.4, which is what we use in this 9.
  • Page 33 For example, we might rename the driver Fusion 192.168.3.4. Click Next. 13. Click OK. 17. If you see this page, click Always trust software from “Epilog Corporation” then Install. 14. Click Next. 18. Click Next. - 27 -...

  • Page 34: Windows 8 And 10: Usb Installation

    Windows 8 will not automatically walk you through the installation process so it is important to follow the instructions below. 1. Insert the Epilog driver install disc into your computer (or download the files from the website). One of the following screens will appear. For the USB installation, you will want to close them.
  • Page 35 SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION Windows 8 and 10: USB Installation 8. In the Unspecified section of Devices and Printers, 11. Click Change Settings. right click on the Fusion icon, then click Properties. 12. Click the Driver tab. 9. Select the Hardware tab. 13.
  • Page 36 Click Always trust software from “Epilog Corporation” then Install. 19. Your Epilog Laser Print Dashboard has been successfully installed on the USB port. Click Close. 16. Find the disc drive with the Epilog install disc and click OK. - 30 -...

  • Page 37: Setting Up Coreldraw Beziers Setting

    SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION Setting Up CorelDRAW Beziers Setting Setting Up CorelDRAW 20. In the next window, click Cancel. Beziers Setting Due to the way that the Fusion series handles vector lines, there is a setting in CorelDRAW that needs to be changed for vector cutting to work properly.

  • Page 38: Mac Driver Installation

    SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION Mac Driver Installation Mac Driver Installation 6. Click Continue. Installing the Epilog Mac Driver for the First Time If you already have the Mac Driver installed and just want to add the ability to work on Sierra OS, go to “Installing the Mac Driver...
  • Page 39 Ghostscript file. At the end of the installation you will be asked to reboot. Reboot to complete the driver installation. 10. Type in the password epilog (lower case) as the Installing the Mac Driver on Sierra password then click Install Software.
  • Page 40 SECTION 3: DRIVER INSTALLATION Mac Driver Installation 2. Select Printers and Scanners. 5. Click the IP icon. 3. Highlight and delete any existing Epilog drivers by 6. Fill out the following information: selecting the minus symbol. Type 127.0.0.1:55000 next to address.
  • Page 41 Mac Driver Installation 7. Select Epilog Corporation Epilog PDE, then click 11. Go to the Finder/Applications. 12. Finally, drag the Epilog icon into the dock. 8. Click Add. 9. And you’re done! The Mac driver has been installed. - 35 -...

  • Page 43: Section 4: The Epilog Job Manager

    3. In Windows 8 or 8.1 you may see this message. Click More Info. Instructions The Epilog Job Manager is a powerful new tool that will quickly become one of your favorite features on your laser system. From one piece of software, you can access...
  • Page 44 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER How to Install the Epilog Job Manager 6. Click Next. 9. Click Next. 7. Click Next. 10. Click Install. 8. Accept the license, then click Next. 11. The installation will take a few moments.

  • Page 45: Trouble Shooting Job Manager Installation

    SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Trouble Shooting Job Manager Installation Trouble Shooting Job 12. Click Finish and the Job Manager is installed. Manager Installation If you were unable to install the Job Manager, it’s possible that your Anti-Virus software is blocking installation.

  • Page 46: Important Epilog Job Manager Notes

    2. To activate your machine: ● Machine Name: Give your machine a name (Fusion M2 32). ● Printer Name: Select your installed laser from the drop-down list. Important - if you do not choose the correct printer you will not be able to print from the Epilog Job Manager! ●...
  • Page 47 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Using the Epilog Job Manager ● Select eView System Installed if you have the 2. Select the Camera tab, then select the system you optional eView Camera Module installed. activated from the drop-down list if you have more ●...
  • Page 48 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Using the Epilog Job Manager Organizing Your Print Jobs Type in the folder name and click the check mark to create your new folder. Click the Jobs tab. All print jobs will be displayed in the Uncategorized folder.
  • Page 49 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Using the Epilog Job Manager Using the Material Setting Create Subfolders Configurations First highlight the folder in the left panel where you want to add a subfolder. Below we have highlighted the Anamosa High School folder. Click the Add Subfolder The Material Settings tab stores all of the suggested laser icon.
  • Page 50 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Using the Epilog Job Manager Navigate to the material setting you need. We have In the Preview mode can preview just the raster highlighted 1/8” Cherry/Alder/Walnut 300 DPI. Click OK. components of your job, or just the vector components.
  • Page 51 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Using the Epilog Job Manager Color Mapping Notice that the jobs are displayed differently if you change the search category to Alphabetical. Your jobs are now displayed in alphabetical order. Once the search To access the Color Mapping settings used in a file,...
  • Page 52 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Using the Epilog Job Manager Vector Sorting Changing Program Settings You can determine the cutting order of vector lines directly You can access the Program Settings by clicking on the from the Epilog Job Manager.
  • Page 53 SECTION 4: THE EPILOG JOB MANAGER Using the Epilog Job Manager Database Tab: • Backup Database: Save a backup of all files, material settings, etc. • Restore Database: Reload settings from a previous backup. • Clear Entire Database: Delete all settings, machines and jobs from the database.

  • Page 55: Section 5: Using The Laser Dashboard

    The Dashboard is shown below and can be installed from the driver CD that came in your accessories kit. It can also be downloaded from the Epilog website. If you are just getting started and are in a hurry to engrave a job, you can do so by setting just a couple of parameters in the Dashboard without having a detailed understanding of what different choices are available to you.

  • Page 56: General Tab

    SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™ General Tab General Tab The General Tab is where you will find 90% of the features you will utilize when sending jobs to the laser. Everything from resolution to speed and power settings are all located on this one page. Resolution Set your print resolution from 75 to 1200 DPI.
  • Page 57 SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™ General Tab Job Manager Features You can choose to print to either the printer (your Fusion Laser), the Job Manager, or both. This allows you to send your job to the Job Manager without sending it to the laser so you can then print the job directly from the Job Manager at a later time without accessing your graphic software.

  • Page 58: Job Type

    SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™ General Tab Job Type Choose between the three modes of operation. • Raster Mode: Used for engraving or marking materials. Typical uses include engraving clipart, scanned images, photos, text and graphic images. Vector lines that you want to engrave rather than cut should be set 0.006” (0.152 mm) or greater line thickness.
  • Page 59 SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™ General Tab Dithering: This setting defines how the dot patterns will be engraved in raster images that contain grayscale images, blends, or color. The Dashboard offers six different dithering patterns to enhance your engraving projects. The default mode is Standard.

  • Page 60: Advanced Tab

    SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™ Advanced Tab Advanced Tab The advanced tab contains advanced features including 3D, stamp mode and configurations. Raster Type Basic Mode: This is the mode you will use for most engraving projects. The laser will use a uniform engraving speed and power for the graphic, providing a consistent engraving.

  • Page 61: Update Firmware

    The Driver Disc has a number of preset configuration files available. When you unzip your selected wattage’s configuration files, they will save to c:/epilog/engraving setting. This is the default folder that the Laser Dashboard will look in to load files available for your laser. After you have found the configuration files you want to use, click on the General tab to see the settings that the loaded file brings up.

  • Page 62: Color Mapping Tab

    SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™ Color Mapping Tab Color Mapping Tab The Color Mapping feature is an advanced feature that must be checked to activate. Color Mapping is designed to be used in either Raster mode or Vector mode, but not in Combined mode. While Color Mapping is a very powerful tool, most operators use it for a few main reasons: •...

  • Page 63: Additional Coreldraw Laser Dashboard Features

    SECTION 5: USING THE LASER DASHBOARD™ Additional CorelDRAW Laser Dashboard Features Use the slider bars to create any RGB color and set the laser parameters. Adjusting the settings does not actually change the values. Select the Right Arrow key to finalize the settings. Color Map Summary The Color Map Summary area is located on the right side of the window and offers a visual display of all of the color mapped settings.

  • Page 65: Section 6: Using The Epilog Mac Driver

    SECTION 6: USING THE EPILOG MAC DRIVER Mac Driver Settings Mac Driver Settings The Mac Driver is a powerful software tool that allows you to engrave and cut directly to your CO2 Fusion Laser from a Mac. Here we demonstrate how to print from Adobe Illustrator, but there are other graphic software programs you can print from to the laser as well.
  • Page 66 SECTION 6: USING THE EPILOG MAC DRIVER Mac Driver Settings default mode is Standard. This mode can be used for all The material thickness is still required when images, including photographs, but some images improve using the Vector Cutting Table. If a thickness...
  • Page 67 SECTION 6: USING THE EPILOG MAC DRIVER Mac Driver Settings an alternative set of speed parameters that are ½ the speed of the standard settings. Speed Comp mode will most often be used with speed settings below 10 when very slow cutting is desired. Most users will rarely use Speed Comp mode, but it adds additional functionality for unusual or demanding applications.

  • Page 68: Project Setup

    3. The standard Illustrator print window will come up, which will be different depending on which version of Mac OS you are using. Set your Printer to Epilog Engraver and PPD to Default (Epilog PDE). Click Setup to access the laser settings.

  • Page 69: Vector Cutting Lines

    Vector Cutting Lines 6. You will return to this print window, so click Print. 9. In the Epilog Viewer, click Edit Settings if you want to change any print settings, or click Print if the job is ready to send to the laser.
  • Page 70 Vector Cutting Lines 3. To see which lines will be cut, click Preview Final. In the Epilog Viewer, you can see which lines are vectors and ready to be cut. Click on Preview Final and the vector lines less than 1 px will be shown in red.

  • Page 71: Section 7: Fusion Control Panel

    SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display Display The display shows valuable information associated with the highlighted Functional Menu items. We will explain the different information that will be displayed as we go through the description of each menu item. International Symbolic Version: Focus Pause Reset...

  • Page 72: Reset Button

    SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display Go Button • Press the Go key to start or resume a job. Pause / Stop Button • Pressing the Pause key will stop the lens carriage and the laser beam will be shut off. If the Pause key is pressed during raster engraving mode the lens carriage will pause on either the far left or far right of the engraving line that is in process.
  • Page 73 SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display Pointer The Pointer key is a toggle switch that turns the laser system’s Red Dot Pointer on and off. When the Red Dot Pointer is on, the indicator light directly to the left of the pointer key will be illuminated. For more information visit “Red Dot Pointer” on page 104. Laser On The Laser On key allows you to move the carriage and fire the laser without having a job in the display.
  • Page 74 SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display Focus The Focus selection allows you to manually set the table to the correct height for engraving. With Focus highlighted, use the Joystick to move the table up or down. The display will show a digital readout of the table position. The image below also shows two visual indicators that provide addition functionality to the Focus function: •...
  • Page 75 SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display • Left (Set): Tilt the Joystick to the left to set a new or temporary z-axis Home Position. Note: The SET 0 function is only used to set or reset a new or temporary Home Position for your table height when using the Color Mapping function in the Dashboard driver.
  • Page 76 SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display • Left (Set): Tilt the Joystick left to set a temporary (new) XY Home Position. • Right (Restore): Tilt the Joystick to the right to reset the lens carriage back to its upper left corner position after you are finished using a new or temporary Home Position.
  • Page 77 SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display ♦ Restore Table Home: Center click to send the table back to its default Home height. You can Restore Table Home from here or you can double center click in Focus mode to do the same thing. 3.
  • Page 78 SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display 10. Serial #: This establishes a serial number for USB use. Center click to gain access, tilt the Joystick up or down to increment or decrement. Press the Go key to make your change permanent. This function is rarely used. 11.
  • Page 79 SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Display 27. Laser TI: This sets the Tickle of the laser tube. This setting is normally a factory only setting and will not need to be adjusted by the user. 28. Pulse Stretch: This sets the Pulse Stretch of the laser tube. This setting is normally a factory only setting and will not need to be adjusted by the user.

  • Page 80: Joystick

    SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Joystick • Center click the Joystick. • Press Go to lock the code or Pause to exit the menu. • After locking the Passcode, access to all machine factory settings from within the Settings menu will be visible, but will be locked out so they cannot be changed accidentally.

  • Page 81: Job Storage: Temporary Memory

    SECTION 7: FUSION CONTROL PANEL Job Storage: Temporary Memory ♦ • Center Click: This is accomplished by simply pressing straight down on the center of the Joystick. A special character is used in the display to indicate functions where a center click action is used. For example, use the ♦...

  • Page 83: Section 8: Quick Start Guide

    SECTION 8: QUICK START GUIDE Artwork Setup Artwork Setup Create your job in the graphics software of your choice, such as CorelDraw or Adobe Illustrator. There are three different modes of operation for the laser and the way you setup your artwork will determine if you raster engrave, vector cut, or use combined mode.

  • Page 84: Setting A Vector Cutting Line

    If this clipart image were run in Combined mode, it would first raster engrave most of the car then vector cut any of the thin lines below .007” (.177 mm). You can also use the Preview function of the Epilog Job Manager to view only vector lines.

  • Page 85: Resolution

    SECTION 8: QUICK START GUIDE Resolution Where do I set the Vector Line Width? Different software packages set the line width in different places. In CorelDRAW, you can find the outline width in the top menu bar when a vector line is selected.

  • Page 86: Helpful Hints

    SECTION 8: QUICK START GUIDE Resolution 400 DPI This resolution value is ideal for many applications. It combines very good image quality with fast engraving times. Many users like 400 DPI for all of their work. 600 DPI When really fine detail or overall excellent results are required, most users choose 600 DPI. 1200 DPI This resolution is used for projects that require the best engraving quality possible, or if engraving extremely small fonts.
  • Page 87 SECTION 8: QUICK START GUIDE Resolution Landscape or Portrait You can engrave using either landscape or portrait modes. Depending on the artwork, you can increase your efficiency and decrease the time it takes to engrave an image by changing the orientation of your file. Many users set up their artwork in portrait mode and then rotate the artwork 90 degrees if they are going to print from landscape mode.
  • Page 88 SECTION 8: QUICK START GUIDE Resolution The drawings below show a job that works in the opposite way - the horizontal mode will take longer than the portrait mode. You’ll notice in the portrait mode there are a number of white space lines that the laser can skip through, saving engraving time.

  • Page 89: Piece And Page Size

    If you are using a material that is likely to move during operation or is very thin, you can hold it in place using the Epilog Integrated Vacuum Table. Simply place it on the table flush against the upper left hand rulers, then cover any remaining holes in the metal table with scrap material or a jig.

  • Page 91: Section 9: Cleaning & Maintenance

    If you run out of the cleaner supplied by Epilog, Reagent or laboratory grade Acetone can be substituted. Another option is a 10 to 1 water to white vinegar mixture. This is very good at removing finger prints and other minerals which can be left behind on the optics.
  • Page 92 SECTION 9: CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Cleaning the Optics Allow the optics to dry before you operate your engraver. When reinstalling the lens assembly, make sure that the Crash Bar is sitting on top of the locating pins on the side of the carriage.

  • Page 93: Cleaning And Lubricating The Bearing Rails

    Lubricate the X-axis Bearing Rail After cleaning the rail, place about an inch long bead of Epilog supplied grease into the top and bottom grooves of the X-axis rail. The following photo shows where to grease the bottom groove of the rail.

  • Page 94: Cleaning The Exhaust Plenum

    SECTION 9: CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum Clean the Right Side Y-Axis Rail Clean the length of the right side Y-axis rail using a soft cotton cloth. Lubrication is not required. Clean the right side Y-axis rail with a soft cloth. Clean the Left Side Y-Axis Rail Clean the length of the left side Y-axis rail using a soft cotton cloth.
  • Page 95 SECTION 9: CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum Cleaning the Vents Clean the vents from the inside of the machine. It is best to use a flexible or wire brush that can access the inside of the vent. Clean the vents with a flexible or wire brush.
  • Page 96 SECTION 9: CLEANING & MAINTENANCE Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum Cleaning the Exhaust Plenum In addition to cleaning the inside of the machine you should occasionally clean the exhaust plenum. The exhaust plenum can be completely removed from the Fusion. Remove the six screws that hold the exhaust plenum in place. The photos below the plenum partially removed and the back of the machine with the plenum fully removed.

  • Page 97: Laser Tube

    At some point in the life of the laser you will need to replace it for gas recharge, electrical repair or mechanical repair. Replacing laser tubes is common practice and Epilog has made the process of changing tubes extremely easy for users to perform with a minimum amount of effort.

  • Page 99: Section 10: System Features

    The pump can either be purchased through your Epilog representative or you can connect your existing compressed air supply to the .25 inch (6 mm) receptacle at the back of the machine (30 PSI max).
  • Page 100 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Auto Focus vs. Manual Focus be controlled by applying varying pressure upwards or downwards on the Joystick. Once the focus position has been established, remove the gauge. Press the Reset key. If your material has a taper or curve, pick an intermediate point between the highest and lowest points being engraved and focus on that point.

  • Page 101: Crash Bar

    SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Crash Bar To enter the material thickness of the object you will be engraving/marking/cutting use a pair of calipers for an accurate measurement and enter this value in the “Thickness” box in the driver. WARNING: If you are using Auto Focus and you know there is not enough clearance between the lens carriage and your material, you will need to lower...

  • Page 102: Image Dithering

    Laser engraved photographs on wood usually require a third party software package to produce a good image that is suitable for the laser. Epilog recommends PhotoLaser Plus for this application. Users find it an invaluable piece of software that is easy to use and will produce much better looking images when working with wood.

  • Page 103: Color Mapping

    We have included some sample photographs on the Epilog driver disc for you to experiment with. Use these photographs to engrave on different materials using the different dithering options so you can get a feel for how each dithering pattern affects the image and the material.
  • Page 104 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Color Mapping For more information, see “eView Camera Module” on page 135. 5. When using the Dual Source option for the Fusion M2 to define CO2 and Fiber portions of the engraving job. For more information, see “Setting Up a Dual Source Job” on page 146. Using Color Mapping Enable Color Mapping When this check box is selected, the laser will use the settings assigned to each color.
  • Page 105 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Color Mapping 3. Adjust the laser settings in the Settings area. 4. Once the laser values have been adjusted, press the Modify key in the Settings area. The available keys are: Move Color Down in List Modify a Color Add a Color Delete a Color Move Color Up in List...
  • Page 106 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Color Mapping Usually, when using Color Mapping in Vector mode, users want to produce a different look on two separate areas of a single piece of material in a single job setup. To achieve a different look for each mark the marking processes require different speeds and powers so this is a perfect job for Color Mapping.
  • Page 107 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Color Mapping 1. Once your vector outlines are set up in your artwork, Select File/Print and go to the Color Mapping tab in the Laser Dashboard. 2. Make sure Color Mapping is checked so we can set up our color mapping settings. 3.
  • Page 108 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Color Mapping Using Color Mapping to Adjust Focus To engrave at multiple focal points on an object with several levels, the Color Mapping feature is very useful. In the following example we want to mark on both Surface 1 and Surface 2 on the following part where Surface 1 is .5” (12.7 mm) high and Surface 2 is .3”...
  • Page 109 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Color Mapping Using Color Mapping to Adjust Object Order Another popular use for color mapping is to adjust the order a series of objects engraved or cut. In the example below, there are three columns of names we are engraving. If we engrave the left file in the image below, the laser carriage will have to travel all the way across the table, covering a lot of empty space, to engrave the image.

  • Page 110: Reset Home Position

    SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Reset Home Position 2. After all of the raster objects have all been engraved, the vector objects will be vectored in the order they appear in the Summary section of the tab. Any other vector objects that are not color mapped will then be vectored using the vector settings found in the General Tab.

  • Page 111: Movable Home Position

    Movable Home Position When engraving irregularly-shaped objects, Epilog’s movable Home Position feature will quickly become one of your favorites. You can quickly set a new Home Position using the Joystick at the control panel and set a new Home Position in seconds.

  • Page 112: Center Engraving

    SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Center Engraving Center Engraving The Center Engraving feature allows you to define the center of your artwork as the primary reference point (Home Position) of your engraving or cutting. The Center Engraving feature has been designed to be used in conjunction with the Jog feature on the Fusion Control Panel.
  • Page 113 SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Center Engraving 3. To insure the graphic is correctly positioned, draw a vector box around your artwork with a vector cutting stroke width (.001” or .025 mm). Print the box to the laser. 4. Click the check box next to Center Engraving in the General Tab of the driver.

  • Page 114: Emergency Stop Button

    SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Emergency Stop Button 1. Set the page size to the area you want to engrave. Unlike when we used Center-Center, page size is important when using Page-Center. 2. Center your graphic on the page with the center point you want to use (the image on the right).

  • Page 115: Front Access Door

    SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Front Access Door Front Access Door The front access door is usually used for easy loading and unloading of palletized materials. The door is interlocked and the laser will not fire if the door is open. The front access door is supported by struts.

  • Page 116: Exhaust Plenum

    It does not block air from moving through the exhaust plenum. In addition to the three manifold options, the exhaust plenum is divided into four (Fusion M2 32) or five (Fusion M2 40) sections.

  • Page 117: Safety Interlock / Laser Status Indicators

    SECTION 10: SYSTEM FEATURES Safety Interlock / Laser Status Indicators machine and through the exhaust plenum. When working with smaller items that do not fill up the entire laser bed, it may be advantageous to block the plenum sections that are not directly in the path of the area being engraved. Two thumb screws to adjust air flow for each section.

  • Page 119: Section 11: Optional Features

    SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table Vector Cutting Table The optional Vector Cutting Table/Vacuum Hold-Down Table is primarily used for vector cutting jobs where the laser penetrates all the way though the material being cut. The Vector Cutting Table lifts your work material off of the flat task plate and allows the laser beam to penetrate all the way through the material without reflecting back up onto the backside of your work.

  • Page 120: Pin Table

    SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Pin Table Pin Table The Pin Table option offers a method for users to keep all back reflections of the laser beam from marking the sides or back of the material being cut. The Pin Table lifts the cutting material completely off the table and provides a means to eliminate the tick marks that can be created when the laser beam comes into contact with the grid material.
  • Page 121 7. Additional pins can be purchased from Epilog. Ask for P/N LF231. 8. The Pin Table is designed so that multiple Pin Tables can be set next to each other and maintain the 1” (24.4 mm) grid pattern.
  • Page 122 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Pin Table Set up your artwork on the grid so that the vector lines do not cross the path of any of the pins. The small black circles within the letter “B” show the location of the pins. Notice that you do not need to place pins in every available space, they just need to be placed where they will support the work piece.

  • Page 123: Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment

    Settings menu items on the Fusion Control Panel. To upgrade your firmware go to the Epilog web site at www.epiloglaser.com/tech-support/epilog-drivers.htm. Further instructions are available in “Section : Upgrading the Operational Firmware” on page 155.
  • Page 124 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment Initial Setup (Setting Home: First time use only) New installations may need to establish the Rotary Home Position. Install the rotary and power up the system. The X-beam will go through its standard power up sequence and will come to rest over the rotary.
  • Page 125 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment 6. Tilt the Joystick down to scroll to the X Rotary Home menu. New installations will show a value of 0.000. 7. Center click the Joystick. A flashing cursor will appear below the number displayed. Tilt the Joystick up or down to increment or decrement the number so that it matches the number you recorded above for the Red Dot Pointer X-axis value.
  • Page 126 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment In most cases you will want to load your cylinder with the larger diameter on the left (drive wheel side). The scissor jack is used to elevate the right side of your cylinder so that the top surface is horizontal. Load your cylinder onto the Rotary Attachment so that it is just touching the black bumper.
  • Page 127 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment Setting Focus with the Rotary Attachment With your cylinder in place on the Rotary Attachment, place the focus gauge on the lens carriage and then scroll to Focus mode on the Fusion Control Panel. Double center click the Joystick to bring up the Focus submenu. GO 0 MOVEOUT SET 0...
  • Page 128 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment Removing the Drive Wheel The drive wheels are each two-piece assemblies when fully assembled. Removing the front part of the drive wheel enables the user to accommodate a wide variety of mugs with handles. Not all mugs with handles require the front drive wheels to be removed, but for certain types of mugs removing the front wheels adds flexibility to the Rotary Attachment.
  • Page 129 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment 3. Place your artwork close to the top edge of the page. When the job starts, the first part of the process is for the cylinder to rotate through any white space that is between the top of your page and the top of your artwork. Once it has rotated through the white space it will begin to laser your artwork.
  • Page 130 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Fusion Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment circle), so we’ll want to adjust the artwork before engraving. To determine how much to adjust your artwork, we’ll need to do a simple calculation that tells us the percentage of stretch or shrinkage we need to perform. You can use either the diameter or the circumference to make the calculation;...

  • Page 131: 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment

    SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment The 3-Jaw Chuck style rotary is an extremely versatile tool for marking and engraving cylindrical objects. It comes with a variety of interchangeable components that make it easy to hold different sized and shaped cylinders. There are two basic setups: 1.
  • Page 132 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment Firmware Preparation 1. Remove the standard 2” lens. Notice that the 2” lens incorporates the crash bar and the Air Assist tube. Make sure your Fusion firmware is version 1.0.0.9 or higher to operate the Rotary Attachment. The firmware version is one of the menu items under the Settings menu items on the Fusion Control Panel.
  • Page 133 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment 4. Insert both connectors into the receptacles on the operation most users set the Home Position at the edge right side of the machine. of either the clamp or the jaws. However, depending on your specific application it can be set anywhere you want.
  • Page 134 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment 7. Center click the Joystick. A flashing cursor will along your cylinder that defines the center point of appear below the number displayed. Tilt the Joystick your mark. up or down to increment or decrement the number 5.
  • Page 135 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment 3. Clamp your Cylinder: insert your cylinder into the 3-Jaw Chuck and tighten the chuck so the cylinder is held firmly in place. You will need to use the two tightening pins that are provided with the chuck in order to clamp the cylinder tightly into place.
  • Page 136 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment 3-Jaw Chuck Diameter Capacities The 3-Jaw Chuck allows four different ways to hold your object based on cylinder diameter and whether you are holding it from the inside or outside diameter. Jaws in Standard Mode Jaws in Wide Mode Piece Held From Inside Diameter 0.875”...
  • Page 137 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment Additional notes about focusing with the rotary. • The 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary was designed to use manual focusing only. While Auto Focus can be used, it is impractical for everyday use. • When you are in Focus mode, the entire X-beam and carriage can be moved by hand. Normally, users will move only the carriage to a point along the long axis to focus.
  • Page 138 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment Rotary Removal The fixture plate will look like the photo when the spindle is assembled. 1. Turn off power to the laser. 2. Open the door. 3. Depress the release tabs on the connectors and unplug the connectors.
  • Page 139 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES 3-Jaw Chuck Rotary Attachment Attaching the Idle-Side Fixture Different Configurations for Plates Fixturing Cylinders The fixture plates can be used on both the chuck side of This photo shows a typical example of a part that might the rotary as well as the idle-side.
  • Page 140 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module The centering fixture is used to support small diameter • One second after pressing the Focus key the carriage will move back and to the right which parts that sag when held in place using only the 3-Jaw places the manual focus gage directly over your Chuck.

  • Page 141: Eview Camera Module

    SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module eView Camera Module The eView Camera Module is an option available only on the Fusion M2. By printing registration marks on your project, the camera system will align your artwork with the cutting and engraving in your project file for the most precise cutting alignment available.
  • Page 142 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module Attach an Ethernet cable from a LAN port on the router to the Network connection on the back of the Fusion. Attach the USB cable from the USB connection on the back of the Fusion to a USB connection on your computer.
  • Page 143 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module Setting Up the File for Vector Cutting Once we have our print file we need to add outlines to the registration marks and add vector cutting lines over the print file. 1. Select the Registration Marks (Fiducials): First, select each of the registration marks and give them a RGB outline color that will match one of the six basic colors available in the Color Mapping section of the driver (red, green, blue, cyan, yellow, magenta).
  • Page 144 This indicates that the Fusion is ready for the 2. Open the Epilog Job Manager. In the Jobs Tab, next step. double click on the job you just printed to open the 4.
  • Page 145 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module 5. Click the eView tab. 7. Designate Registration Mark 1: In the upper right corner of the eView window you will see the Preview Window showing a line representation of the file. One of the registration marks is highlighted in pink. Move your mouse to the corresponding registration mark in the video feed and click on the blue diamond icon that is on top of the registration mark in your...
  • Page 146 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module blue icon. It will turn pink. Click the Proceed key 11. Hunting Routine: The laser carriage will start again in the lower right corner. moving to find the first registration mark and precisely locate its exact location on the laser bed. The same process is followed to precisely locate the second mark.
  • Page 147 Checking Camera Calibration To check the overhead camera calibration, you must have set up your laser system in the Epilog Job Manager. For more details, see “Activate a Laser” on page 36. 1. To check the overhead camera calibration, open the top door.
  • Page 148 1) Overhead Camera Calibration 1. Click on the settings icon in the upper right corner of the Epilog Job Manager. This will take approximately ten minutes but can take longer under low light conditions.
  • Page 149 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module After running the Calibrate Overhead Cameras 5. Select your machine and click the Proceed key. routine, you must run the Calibrate Lens Routine and the Calibrate Stitching Routine. Move on to the Lens Camera Calibration. 2) Lens Camera Calibration The second step requires the calibration of the camera located at the lens carriage.
  • Page 150 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES eView Camera Module 8. The system will now analyze the exact position of 1. Click the Settings icon. the registration marks by moving the carriage over the engraved piece. The system will annotate the images with cross-hairs as it calculates the precise location of the lens camera relative to the engraving.
  • Page 151 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES Dual Source Option 4. Place the arrow on the calibration printout up 6. The carriage will automatically move back and the against the top ruler at the middle of the table. This table will move to its focus position before the routine identifies the size and location of the circles calibration routine begins.

  • Page 152: Dual Source Option

    In a typical job when you are using only the CO2 or only the fiber laser, you will set your laser source in the Default Settings section of the Epilog Dashboard Print Driver. 2. Set the Resolution, set the Piece Size, and choose Raster as the Job Type.
  • Page 153 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES PhotoLaser Plus Color Mapping Order of Operation When printing a dual source job with Color Mapping, it’s important to understand the order that the laser will follow for engraving and cutting. 1. First it will engrave any color mapped raster jobs in order from top to bottom of the color map list.

  • Page 154: Photolaser Plus

    1. Go to Devices and Printers on your computer and check your print driver’s name to be sure the word Epilog is included. If it is, you are ready to install the software. 2. If the word Epilog is not included in the laser’s...
  • Page 155 7. Select your laser in the driver list. Make sure this Import your photo to be transformed. Select File has the name Epilog in the driver, or move back to then Import. step one. Next close the print window by clicking the red X.
  • Page 156 X and Y dimensions of the photo. 14. Choose the material you are going to engrave. If you don’t see the Epilog settings, they can be downloaded from epiloglaser.com/photolaserplus_ 11. Set the Resolution: This number must match the instructions.htm.
  • Page 157 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES PhotoLaser Plus 16. You can now print the file to the laser. 2. Crop the Photograph: Select the photograph, then select from the menu bar Effects, PowerClip, and Make sure you print the image at the same Place Inside Container.
  • Page 158 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES PhotoLaser Plus Creating Badges with Variable 5. Set the resolution to match your engraving resolution. This is usually 300 or 600 DPi. Set the Names color mode to either RGB, CMYK, or Grayscale (it doesn’t matter which one). Another feature of PhotoLaser Plus is it’s flexible badge layout function.
  • Page 159 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES PhotoLaser Plus 4. Click and drag a box within the badge. Size it to 7. Select the Badges icon in the tool bar. approximately accommodate your longest text string. Make sure it fits in the badge area. 8.
  • Page 160 SECTION 11: OPTIONAL FEATURES PhotoLaser Plus 9. After clicking OK, the text substitution box will open allowing you to enter or adjust the names for your badges. 10. After clicking OK, you will be taken back to your drawing page and badges will be properly laid out and populated.

  • Page 161: Section 12: Upgrading The Operational Firmware

    – it will read Version 1_0_X_X. Downloading: From the Epilog web site download the new firmware and save. Normally, the default Save location is onto your Download folder. Once downloaded, you can use a thumb drive, flash drive or other portable media to move the file from one computer to another if you need to.
  • Page 162 SECTION 12: UPGRADING THE OPERATIONAL FIRMWARE How to Upgrade Your Firmware Transferring New Firmware from Go to the Advanced tab, check the Update Firmware box and then click on the Load key. Your Computer to Your Laser Use the following procedure to transfer the hex file to the laser: Create a simple drawing in your graphics package.
  • Page 163 SECTION 12: UPGRADING THE OPERATIONAL FIRMWARE How to Upgrade Your Firmware Click Print. At this point, the .hex file will begin transferring to your laser. The laser knows that it is being upgraded and the graphic that you created will not print, nor will it show up as a Job.

  • Page 165: Section 13: Printing From Autocad

    AutoCAD. AutoCAD versions AutoCAD makes when printing can cause frustration for 14 to the present are mostly compatible with Epilog laser users that are used to being able to send a job to systems. Each version of AutoCAD uses slightly different the laser and have its precise location be very predictable.
  • Page 166 SECTION 13: PRINTING FROM AUTOCAD How to Print from AutoCAD to the Laser Set the Piece Size to match your AutoCAD to run the job. page size. Setting your AutoCAD page and the Dashboard print driver settings to a Other useful settings in the AutoCAD print window are: square configuration (36”...

  • Page 167: Section 14: Material Engraving Techniques

    CO2 Laser Materials/Techniques Your Epilog Laser system is very versatile. It can mark and cut many different materials. Following is information regarding some of the materials the laser will mark and cut. Check the Epilog website (www.epiloglaser.com) periodically for new laser applications, tips and techniques to use with your laser.

  • Page 168: Acrylic

    (or, visa versa). There are some 3D graphics software packages available that will create 3D images, but they generally cost between $3,500 and $10,000 USD. Ask your Epilog representative if you would like more information on these software packages. Acrylic Fire Warning: Your laser system uses a high-intensity beam of light that can generate extremely high temperatures when it comes into contact with the material being engraved, marked or cut.

  • Page 169: Anodized Aluminum

    SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES CO2 Laser Materials/Techniques • Engrave the acrylic at a high speed and low power. A small amount of power is all it takes to mark acrylic and high power levels tend to distort the acrylic when engraving. •...

  • Page 170: Brass - Painted

    Since the frequency of the CO2 laser is not compatible with bare metals, uncoated brass cannot be laser engraved. For bare-metal marking you will want to use an Epilog FiberMark system. In order to engrave brass with a CO2 laser you need to use brass that has some sort of coating –...

  • Page 171: Glass

    SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES • Note: Use caution when trying to engrave brass coated pens. Many pens have a very hard epoxy paint that is completely unacceptable for CO2 laser engraving. You should only use pens that you have experimented with or that are specifically designed for CO2 laser engraving.

  • Page 172: Notary Seals: Delrin

    SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES • Masking: Some people find that applying a thin, wet sheet of newspaper or paper towel a little larger than the engraving area also helps with heat dissipation and improves the engraving. Just be sure that there are no wrinkles in the paper after it is applied.

  • Page 173: Plastic Engraving/Cutting

    SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES The male image should be produced without the use of outlines around the text or graphics. Add a .007 to .010 inch (0.178 mm to 0.254 mm) outline to the text and graphics of the female die. This outline creates a large enough void between the male and female dies to emboss paper without tearing.

  • Page 174: Rubber Stamps

    WARNING! Do not engrave PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride). PVC will destroy the optics and mechanics of your Epilog system. Cutting or engraving PVC will void your warranty. The only way to find out if there is PVC in your plastic is to the check the manufacturer’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).
  • Page 175 SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES Fence Method: This technique uses a closed outline to define the area to be engraved away. This image shows the stair-step outline of a Fence enclosing the logo to be stamped. The laser will engrave away only the background area outlined by the Fence, leaving the logo standing.
  • Page 176 SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES Examples of stamp layouts using Fence Method: Example 1: Single stamp (will not be cut out): Example 2: Single circular stamp to be cut out: Fence Line 0.001” (.025mm) Fence Line 0.001” (.025mm) Cut Line 0.001”...
  • Page 177 SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES Sending a Stamp File to the Laser Select Stamp as your Raster Type. With Stamp mode selected, you can change the shoulder and widening settings (explained below). The mirror function mirrors everything except the lines to be cut. Only use if not cutting out the stamps with the laser.

  • Page 178: Wood

    Every type of wood has its own characteristics. Some wood is denser than other wood, with the denser, harder woods requiring more laser power to cut or engrave. Epilog recommends that when working with wood other than the ones listed in this section that you investigate the engraving and cutting characteristics before committing to use. There are woodworking shops in nearly every large city that will have a wealth of information on nearly all woods.
  • Page 179 Wood Vector Cutting Techniques Epilog Laser Systems are ideal for cutting through solid wood material. The thickness of the wood that you can cut varies with the wattage of the laser and the hardness of the wood, but in general you can cut approximately ¼ inch (6.35 mm) wood with a 30-watt laser and up to ½...
  • Page 180 Some people like to use 409, Windex or other mild cleaning product, but water works well and is usually the most readily available wetting agent. The chamois that Epilog recommends has a sponge in the middle of it, and is available in the automotive car wash section of many Target stores or many automotive supply shops.

  • Page 181: Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques

    SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques 2. Engrave through the paste wax into the wood. Do not wipe off excess paste or residue after engraving. 3. Fill the engraved voids with Turtlewax “Color Core” black liquid car polish. The car polish will absorb into the engraved wood grain, but will not absorb into the wood grain that is covered with paste wax.

  • Page 182: Metal Polishing

    SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques We find for the best deep metal etching, moderate speed settings (20-30%) and more passes slowly chip away at the metal for a better mark. Deep metal engraving requires maximum wattage. For these applications, a 30 or 50-watt fiber laser is recommended.
  • Page 183 SECTION 14: MATERIAL ENGRAVING TECHNIQUES Fiber Laser Materials/Techniques at some point during the manufacturing life cycle. These plastics are doped with an additive that results in a contrasting mark when the 1062nm wavelength of light is applied. There are many other plastics that work just as well as the engineered ones. It’s amazing how many different plastics we receive for applications testing, most of the time their trade name and chemical composition aren’t disclosed or are unknown.

  • Page 185: Section 15: Specifications

    SECTION 15: SPECIFICATIONS Fusion Laser Technical Specifications Fusion Laser Technical Specifications Fusion M2 32 (CO2) Fusion M2 32 (Fiber) Fusion M2 40 (CO2) Fusion M2 40 (Fiber) Maximum 32” x 20” (812 x 508 mm) 40” x 28” (1016 x 711 mm)

  • Page 186: Compatibility

    Your Epilog Laser has been designed as an “open architecture” product that can be run from almost any Windows based software. Epilog provides both Windows 32-bit and 64-bit print drivers, as well as a Beta version of a Mac driver for OS X 10.7 and higher.

  • Page 187: About The Co2 Laser Source

    About The CO2 Laser Source Your Epilog CO2 laser system uses the latest in laser technology to provide a powerful tool that is simple and safe to setup and operate. The Epilog Laser can mark, engrave, and cut a variety of non-metallic materials.

  • Page 188: About The Fiber Laser Source

    SECTION 15: SPECIFICATIONS About the Fiber Laser Source About the Fiber Laser Source The fiber laser source generates a laser beam by pumping intense diode light into the end of fiber optic cables that have been doped with ytterbium. The energy from the diode light is absorbed by the ytterbium in the fiber optic cables. The ytterbium then releases the energy in the form of photons that travel down the optic cables.

  • Page 189: Section 16: Technical Support

    The technical support department at Epilog is available to assist with solving problems you may encounter using your Epilog. Please review first the common problems and solutions as noted below, then if you are still in need of assistance you may contact Epilog’s technical support department at the number or website listed below. Technical support is available in Golden, Colorado USA during the hours of 6 a.m.

  • Page 190: Frequently Asked Questions

    SECTION 16: TECHNICAL SUPPORT Frequently Asked Questions Frequently Asked Questions Engraver Will Not Vector 1. Verify that the print driver is set to Vector or Combined mode. 2. Verify that the lines that you want to vector are set to .001” (0.025 mm). 3.
  • Page 191 SECTION 16: TECHNICAL SUPPORT Frequently Asked Questions 3. If you are experiencing a double image problem or other quality issue, it is best to run a sample and send a photo to: tech@epiloglaser.com. The Laser Won’t Turn On Make sure the Emergency Stop key the front of the machine is not pressed in. When I Use the Joystick to Focus the Table, the Table is Moving Slowly You are in “Fine”...
  • Page 192 SECTION 16: TECHNICAL SUPPORT Frequently Asked Questions • Reduce speed when running very small items: When you run at 100% speed on a graphic with a very short stroke, the lens assembly comes up to speed and slows down extremely quickly, which can place wear on the mechanics of the laser.

  • Page 193: Section 17: Material Suppliers

    SECTION 17: MATERIAL SUPPLIERS Industry Material Supplier List Industry Material Supplier List The following list contains supplier information for materials typically used with your Epilog Laser. Additional suppliers and links can be found on our website at http://www.epiloglaser.com/industry_links.htm. Acrylic Corian and Fountainhead...
  • Page 194 SECTION 17: MATERIAL SUPPLIERS Industry Material Supplier List Gold Coast Graphics Laser Sketch Victory Huntinton Beach, CA Romeoville, IL Chicago, IL 888-733-0061 630-243-6360 800-327-5578 www.goldcoastgraphics.com www.lasersketch.com www.buyvictory.com Max Gift International Medals (Engraveable) Metal Marking Solution Beaverton, OR 503-579-9804 Catania CerMark Metal - Ferro www.max-gift.com Avon Lake, OH Mayfield Heights, OH...
  • Page 195 SECTION 17: MATERIAL SUPPLIERS Industry Material Supplier List Pen and Pencil Sets Slate Wood Design/WDI Forest Lake, MN IMARK Pen Co. Laser Slate 800-354-0196 Arlington, TX 866-491-9044 651-464-6190 817-385-0306 www.laserslate.com www.thewoodster.com www.IMARK-Pen.com Sports Materials Plastics (Engraveable) MiniSticks Colorado Plastic Products Buffalo, NY Lakewood, CO 866-646-4784...

  • Page 197: Appendix A: Warranty Statement

    Epilog facility. All other costs for replacement or repair, including, but not limited to, packaging and shipping both to and from Epilog, shall be paid by the owner. A “Core” charge may be required by Epilog to insure the return of replacement and repair parts.

  • Page 199: Appendix B: Material Settings

    APPENDIX B: MATERIAL SETTINGS Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2) Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2) Material DPI/Freq. 30 watt 40 watt 50 watt 60 watt 75 watt 120 watt Acrylic Photo Engraving 300 DPI 90s 60p 90s 55p 90s 50p 90s 45p 90s 40p 90s 30p...
  • Page 200 APPENDIX B: MATERIAL SETTINGS Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2) Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2) Material DPI/Freq. 30 watt 40 watt 50 watt 60 watt 75 watt 120 watt Marble Photo Engraving 300 DPI 90s 55p 90s 50p 90s 45p 90s 40p 90s 35p 90s 25p...
  • Page 201 APPENDIX B: MATERIAL SETTINGS Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (CO2) • These are only suggestions: Every type of material will react differently with the laser, even from one plastic to the next. Use these settings as your starting point then adjust one variable at a time until you achieve the result you desire. Settings for any material are a matter of personal preference.

  • Page 202: Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber)

    APPENDIX B: MATERIAL SETTINGS Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber) Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber) Material DPI/Freq. 20 watt 30 watt 50 watt Aluminum (Anodized) Etching/Marking 600 DPI Speed: 30 - 40% Speed: 40 - 50% Speed: 50 - 60% Power: 100% Power: 100% Power: 100%...
  • Page 203 APPENDIX B: MATERIAL SETTINGS Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber) Fusion Series Suggested Material Settings (Fiber) Material DPI/Freq. 20 watt 30 watt 50 watt Etching: Like our C02 counterparts, the slower the speed setting, the deeper the etching. However, many metal applications can be processed at higher speed settings in the range of 50-100%.
  • Page 204 Laser settings can sometimes be confusing because many materials can be marked over such a broad range of settings. If you have difficulty in finding the correct setting you can send a sample to the Epilog Laser Applications lab. We will determine if the material can be marked and provide appropriate setting for your laser.

  • Page 205: Index

    INDEX Index New Z-Axis Home 69 Table Home 71 Symbols Bearing Rail 87 3D Engraving 54, 161 Lubrication 87 3-Jaw Chuck. Rotary Attachment Bearings 88, 179 10/100 Network Interface Card 180 X-Axis Rail 87 21 CFR 1040 6 Y-Axis Rail 88 21 CFR 1040.10 3 Bed Size 73 21 CFR 1040.11 3...
  • Page 206 Create a Cut Line 78 Custom Artwork Designers 187 Lens Camera Calibration 143 Quick Print 140 Registration Marks 137 Setting Up the Job in the Epilog Job Manager 138 Data Light 66 Exhaust Fan 13, 110 Delrin 166 Connection 13...
  • Page 207 Installing Firmware 155. Firmware Interlock Safety 6 Status Lights 111 Mac Driver 59–64 IP Address 16, 72 Epilog Viewer 63 IP Address Setup in the Computer 17 Installation 32 Project Setup 62 Raster Settings 60 Sierra OS Installation 33 Jarvis 165...
  • Page 208 INDEX Plated Metals 197 Mother of Pearl Suppliers 188 Motion Control System 179 Plotting 159 Movable Home Position 105 Plug Type 15 Plywood 173 Multiple Pages 57 Multiple Passes 57, 167 Pointer Button 66 Polish 166 Polishing Stainless Steel 196 Polyvinyl Chloride.
  • Page 209 INDEX Installation 126 Outside Diameter 130 Task Plate 109 Setting Home 127 TCP/IP Address Setup in the Computer 17 Vector Speed Limitations 130 Technical Specifications 179 Adjusting Your Artwork 123 Technical Support 183 Standard Rim-Drive Rotary Attachment 117–124 Artwork Layout 122 Temperature 12 Drive Wheel 122 Temporary Memory 75...
  • Page 210 INDEX Wavelength CO2 Laser Source 181 Fiber Laser Source 182 Weight 179 Widening 55 Windows 7 Ethernet Installation 19 USB Installation 22 Windows 8 Ethernet Installation 25 USB Installation 28 Windows 10 Ethernet Installation 25 USB Installation 28 Windows 32 180 Wood 172–175, 194 Bare Wood 172 Cleaning 174...

This manual is also suitable for:

Fusion m2 401300014000

Table of Contents

Save PDF