I have been using the laser module on my 2.0 350t. I just tried cutting adhesive vinyl like the stuff used in Cricut machines. The results were great. But I heard some talk about toxic fumes (chlorine gas) that turn into hydrochloric acid when it hits the humidity in the air. What if I mount a vacuum pickup at the module to vacate all the gases? I can replace the shop vac cheaply when its gives out. Will this save the machine from damage? I am considering making a vacuum hold down from sheet ABS with a shop vac and I can run the bleeder from its manifold to the module head. BTW, I am using the 1600 mw module.
My main question is, being the material is so thin and the cut so narrow, how much of an issue is the toxic gases produced?
I suspect a used Cricut or Silhouette cutter off eBay costs less than having to replace the laser module because you eroded the lens with hydrochloric acid vapour. You’d have to vent extraordinarily well to keep that from happening over time.
It’s the C (Chlorine) in PVC that’s dangerous. You can get types of vinyl without chlorine. Just be sure you check the chemical compound of the vinyl you choose.
I went through the same process two years ago… trying to figure out a way to cut vinyl with the Snapmaker Original. I ended up using polyester material instead. My needs were simple - I was trying to laser cut a mask to put over glass so I could use etching cream to etch the glass. The vinyl I ended up using was a waterproof mailing label from Avery. Obviously, they weren’t pretty colors and would not be sufficient to stick to a gift for someone. But they worked for my needs.
My main concern was the one expressed here already… it would take NO time at all for the chlorine gas to destroy the optics in the laser module. In fact, I had accidentally gotten a tiny bit of grease on the lens of the laser while trying to adjust it and it rendered it completely useless until cleaned. Chlorine gas would permanently damage it.
So, depending on what you’re trying to do, it would probably be smarter to do what the others recommend - a knife-draging solution with your Snapmaker for a few cuts, or a Cricut if you’re going to be producing a lot.
It’s awesome to hear that you’ve been experimenting with your 2.0 350t laser module on adhesive vinyl! Achieving great results with vinyl cutting can be quite satisfying. Regarding your concern about the potential for toxic fumes, you’re right to be cautious. Vinyl can release chlorine gas when cut, which can turn into hydrochloric acid when it reacts with humidity.
Your idea of mounting a vacuum pickup to evacuate these gases sounds like a proactive approach. While I’m not an expert in laser cutting, it seems like a reasonable precaution to reduce the risk of damage to your machine and, more importantly, to ensure your safety. If you can effectively redirect these fumes using a shop vac and a vacuum hold-down system, it might provide a solution to your concern.
As for the extent of the issue with toxic gases when cutting thin vinyl, it’s advisable to err on the side of caution. Even small amounts of chlorine gas can be harmful, so implementing your vacuum setup could be a wise choice. Additionally, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and consider wearing appropriate safety gear.