K40 Laser Height Measuring Guide by 2manytoyz

Last crawled date: 3 years, 4 months ago

After performing the ramp test to determine the optimal distance between the laser and the material being cut, I 3D printed a measuring guide.
This can also be done with an adjustable combination square on some machines, but mine came with the heavy duty drag chain across the carriage, which is in the way of the square.
This guide slips under the drag chain, and stays in place while I adjust the bed height. Only takes seconds to verify the distance.
I'm using an adjustable lab jack, which gives the ability to quickly tweak the height.
I added magnets to the back so the guide can be stuck to the side of the laser housing when not in use. I also used a bright color, so I can quickly spot it.
Your optimal distance may vary. I've included the Fusion 360 design file, so you can easily tweak the settings. For me, 70mm was spot on.
Source of the magnets: https://amzn.to/3rpbe3a
Source of the adjustable lab jack: https://amzn.to/3pkywFn
Source of the K40 laser cutter: https://amzn.to/2WHMFQQ
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