Epilog Helix Laser Cutter
The Epilog Helix is a quality laser cutter that uses simple 2D raster and vector images to generate tool paths. Laser cutters, such as the Epilog, are often used to mark the surface of a material, aka etching or engraving, or to quickly cut complex parts leaving a clean edge with a very high-quality surface finish. The Epilog Helix is quick, uses inexpensive materials, and is easy to use making for an ideal platform for prototyping needs and for those learning manufacturing processes.
Availability
The Epilog Helix is available for academic, research, and personal project use. It is not intended for production. There is no charge to use the laser cutter but you must bring your own approved material.
Understanding the Technology
What is Laser Cutting: Laser cutting is the process of using a focused beam of laser light to cut and/or engrave items from flat sheets of material such as plastic, fabrics, or wood. A laser cutter works by focusing the energy output of a laser tube through a series of optics to a very thin, very high energy beam of invisible light.
Laser Cutting Materials: Cutting: Acrylic & laser safe wood products up to 3/8" thick. Etching: Acrylic, wood, cotton fabric, & glass
Laser Cutting Benefits: Under proper use, laser cutters provide high precision manufacturing that is clean and safe. Results are accurate and repeatable.
Laser Cutting Disadvantages: If improperly used, laser cutters can pose a risk to one's health and others due to the high risk of fire and inhalation of toxic fumes. Additionally, material stock is in the form of thin flat sheets limiting the cutter to simple 2D shapes.
Epilog Helix Specifications
- Technology - 60 watt air-cooled CO2 laser tubes
- Operating Modes - Optimized raster, vector or combined
- Engraving Area - 610 x 457 mm x 216 mm (24" x 18" x 8.5")
- Maximum Table Weight - 30 lbs (14 kg)
- Resolution - User controlled from 75 to 1200 dpi
Learn How to use the Epilog Helix
To learn how to design for, safely operate, and earn your laser cutter operator certification see our Teaching and Certification page: http://www.dc.umich.edu/fs-certification.
To go beyond our basic certification training requirements additional learning materials are available at the Ground Connection Knowledge Base: https://sites.google.com/umich.edu/groundconnections.
Reserve Access to the Epilog Helix
The laser cutter is available to certified users by reservation only. To reserve the laser cutter assure a time slot is open on the Reservation Calendar and reserve your spot via the Reservation Request Form. We will respond with confirmation as soon as possible.
Reserving equipment at the FS is a 3 step process:
- Earn the appropriate Equipment Certification; see our Teaching and Certification page
- Check the equipment schedule on the Resource Calendar
- Reserve time using the Reservation Request Form