I’m going to test out my new xTool P2 laser by trying to engrave my logo and other vectors into some anodized aluminum hold-down clamps.
This kind of CO2 laser can engrave varnished or anodized metals. This layer does not cause the laser to reflect and when applying heat, the varnish evaporates. This is what causes the contrast that makes the engraving visible.
Metals that aren’t anodized or varnished need to be coated with a special chemical in order to engrave them.
xTool P2 CO2 Laser – Affiliate Link (Europe)
xTool P2 CO2 Laser – Affiliate Link (USA)
First I have to place them on the laser grid, with their upper surface being level. To do this I have to remove one of the grid slats and use my digital angle finder.
Now I’m going to put some vectors on the picture taken by the laser. I’ll use the close-view capture camera. I’ll use the close-view capture camera to position it.
I ran some tests with another piece of aluminum to work out the necessary parameters. I’ll leave the laser door open, this one time only, so that we can better see the engraving process. Don’t try this at home—it’s dangerous. The result is excellent.
If you’re wondering where this kind of hold-down clamps are useful, let me show you. I normally use them to hold workpieces on the table saw sled, both for cutting horizontally and vertically.
I wasn’t expecting this definition on anodized aluminum! If you want to get black engravings you must also apply a chemical spray.
