How to Make Risers for Your Desktop Laser Engraver - Engrave Tumblers with the Polar

OMTech Laser Updated On Nov 14, 2024

Desktop laser engravers like the OMTech Polar laser cutter are designed for beginner crafters, DIYers, and small business owners that desire smaller setups without compromising on quality. With substantial engraving speeds of 500mm/s, integrated features for user efficiency, and software compatible with multiple programs, the Polar 350 50W is the ultimate tool for executing your creative visions.

However, even the most advanced machines can have limitations that makers are eager to overcome. One of the Polar’s selling-points is its included rotary attachments, which can be utilized to engrave cylindrical or irregularly-shaped objects up to 30mm x 74mm. This limitation hinders users from engraving tumblers, which typically have diameters of 87-88mm. Today, we’ll show you how to create risers using your OMTech Polar to address this height restriction for your rotary attachment.

Custom-Made Rotary Risers

To overcome the challenge of height restriction when using the rotaries, innovative users have developed a simple yet effective solution: custom-made rotary risers. These risers elevate the entire laser engraver, creating additional clearance for larger objects while maintaining the functionality of the rotary attachment. Here's a step-by-step guide to creating and implementing these risers:

Materials Needed:

6mm Baltic Birch plywood
OMTech Polar laser engraver

Design Process:

For the design process, use a laser cutting software to design the riser components. Our go-to is Lightburn, so these instructions will be tailored directly for this program.

Create a circular cutout (41mm diameter) to accommodate the machine's legs.
Create a 51mm x 51mm square; this will be the base of the riser.
On the left-side toolbar, click the Selection tool and select both the circle and square shapes.
On the top toolbar, click the Target icon to align both layers.
Select just the box and select the Array icon on the left-side toolbar. Change the X Spacing and Y Spacing to 53mm to ensure spacing between each box.
Change the X Columns to 7 and the Y Rows to 4. This should give you a grid of 24 boxes, granting you seven boxes for each leg of the Polar. Click okay.
Select the circle and click the Array tool again. Change the Y Rows to 4. This should give you four boxes with circles in them.

Cutting:

Cut the designed pieces using your laser engraver.
Recommended settings: 10mm/s speed, 62% power (adjust based on your specific machine).

Assembly:

Stack and glue seven layers for each leg to achieve the desired height.
Create four complete riser assemblies, one for each corner of the machine.

Installation:

Remove the honeycomb bed and tray from the laser engraver.
Place a riser under each leg of the machine.
Reinstall the rotary attachment and plug it in.

Place a riser under each leg of the machine

Results and Considerations:

Once you’ve installed the risers underneath your Polar, you should have sufficient clearance for 20-ounce tumblers 87-88mm in diameter. Note that the rotary attachment's cord may be at its maximum length after installation. If you’re looking to elevate your Polar even more, this is not advised, as the rotary will not be able to connect to your machine. Additionally, you should ensure your rotary is properly aligned with the machine’s edge.

Implications for Workflow and Production

Implementing these custom risers can have a significant impact on your laser engraving workflow and production capabilities:

Expanded Product Range: With the ability to engrave larger tumblers, you can offer a wider variety of personalized drinkware to your customers.
Increased Efficiency: By eliminating the need for alternative engraving methods for larger tumblers, you can streamline your production process.
Cost-Effective Solution: Creating custom risers is an inexpensive way to enhance your machine's capabilities without investing in additional equipment.
Versatility: The risers can be easily installed or removed, allowing you to switch between standard and enhanced configurations as needed.
Maintaining Precision: Despite the increased height, the OMTech Polar 350's precision and quality remain uncompromised when using properly designed risers.

Safety and Maintenance Considerations

While this modification can greatly enhance your laser engraver's capabilities, it's essential to keep the following points in mind:

Always ensure the machine is stable after installing the risers.
Regularly check the alignment of your rotary attachment and laser head.
Be mindful of the rotary attachment's cord length limitations.
Perform routine maintenance checks to ensure all components are functioning correctly at the new height.

Maximize Your OMTech Polar 350

The OMTech Polar 350 is a versatile and powerful laser engraving system designed for both hobbyists and professionals. To fully appreciate the impact of these custom risers, let's review some key specifications of this impressive machine:

Laser Output: 50W
Processing Area: 20.1" x 11.8"
Maximum Processing Speed: 500mm/s
Precision: 0.001"
Max Cutting Depth: 0.4” on basswood
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet
Built-in Features: Water chiller, air assist, 5MP camera

The Polar’s all-inclusive and robust build makes it the favorite tool for crafters and small business owners looking for an intuitive machine to create their products. Integrated features such as the built-in water chiller and air assist aid the laser engraver’s functionality, making each pass as efficient as possible.

The addition of the 360-degree camera allows users to visualize their designs on the material—an invaluable feature for perfect framing. If you’re looking for the best desktop laser engraver with user-intuitive features for your small business, the Polar 50W is the way to go!

Take Your Laser Engraving to New Levels!

Ready to elevate your laser engraving game? Explore the full potential of OMTech CO2 laser engravers and discover how they can transform your creative projects or business operations. Visit OMTech's website to learn more about the Polar 350 and other cutting-edge laser engraving solutions. With OMTech, you're not just investing in a machine—you're unlocking a world of possibilities limited only by your imagination. Take the next step in your laser engraving journey today!