This was fun to make. I used the app Gear Generator then tweaked the exported file a little. I still need to work on my power and cut times but I’m getting closer. Also, it seems that this is really inconsistent plywood. It’s the cheapest 5mm I could find at the hardware store. It gets about a 95% cut with one pass at about 12ma and 20 mmps. the remaining 5% must be hardwood or other debris that can take 3 or 4 more passes to cut, burning everything else. I’ll try this again on MDF or try to find better plywood.
It’s the glue.
When you get voids, they fill in with the glue, which seems laser resistant, to put it mildly.
There was a place Something “Hardwoods” on ebay that had very good 1/8" for a buck a square foot if you bought 25 or 50 12" squares, but they seem to have disappeared as of late.
If I could get more of that ply, I’d be happy to laminate my own 1/4" for gears etc.
Right now, I 'm conserving my supply until the source shows back up.
PS
Update:
This got me thinking, and I went out and dug through the box of good stuff.
I found a packing list
KenCraft Co Inc
821 N Westwood
Toledo Ohio 43607
HARDWOODS@Kencraftcompany.com
It’s 40 sheets 12 x 12 (11 7/8) in a flat rate box for $49.95
I’m guessing they have other thicknesses.
It’s good cutting plywood, puts Midwest to shame.
Scott
yeah, you’ll find standard plywood is really hard to get consistent results out of. Baltic Birch is a lot better (but still can give you some issues with glue spots or other internal defects causing cut problems). MDF is very consistent but messy. Chipboard is really good but not as sturdy as MDF or plywood over time.
I really appreciate the tips. Thanks.
My local hardware store sells 5 x 5 foot baltic birch for 17 buckx - canadian - a few minutes on the table saw gives me all the sizes I need for any project that fits the cutter
Glad I saw this. Have been puzzled about this phenomenon also! It does make sense as the edges of the cut are sticky.