In this article we will learn how to use the Power Speed Matrix Test Pattern, in order to find the power and speed setting suitable for your material.
Firstly, it is important that you download the files needed, they can be found HERE.
Once the files have been downloaded, extract the zip file in a folder or on the desktop.
Next we will need to open JobControl and import the Material template.
By clicking “CTRL + M” after opening JobControl, the material database window will pop up. Navigating down to the “Options” icon, press the “Import from file” option.
Next, we have to navigate to the folder where we extracted the .zip file and find the file called “P&S 25 – 100 Matrix”. This files, file type is .XML. Once you have clicked the file, press “Open”.
The next window you will be greeted with is the “Material Import” window. When presented with this window, please click “Import Materials and create copy on equal material names”. By clicking this option, it will prevent overwriting a material file with the same name.
As you can see, once imported, the new material will be stored under the material group “Standard” in a material called “P&S 25 – 100 Matrix”.
NOTE: As you can see in the image above the power and speed settings increase at a rate of 25% per colour. You can skip certain colours, if you think that they will damage the material you are testing. For Example 100 power, 25 speed will put the most power into the material which could set fire to it. Please be aware, that if the material under test is flammable or can be easily damaged due to high heat, please skip this engraving colour.
Now that we have the material in the material database, please restart JobControl to save the changes.
Once JobControl has been restarted, the material will now be stored in the material database and this step will never need to be repeated.
Now we will learn how to use the Power Speed Test Matrix.
When you open the “P&S 25 – 100 Matrix” file, you will be greeted with this view.
Simply navigate up to “File” and press “Print”
You will then be greeted with the “Print Properties” window. Please click the “Preferences…” button to set up the printer driver.
The printer driver settings should look like the image above.
NOTE: Please take care to make sure the correct material is selected in the “Material Settings” section. This should have the “P&S 25 – 100 Matrix” material selected.
If everything is done correctly, you should see the matrix in JobControl with each colour selected. Again I must stress, if your material under test is flammable or can be easily damaged due to high heat, please skip any engraving colour that might cause damage to the material.
An operator must be supervising the material testing at all times. By using these test files, you as the operator of the laser, take full responsibility for any damages caused by the misuse of these files.
That’s it for now
Catch ya next time!
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