Lasergravierer-Blog

 Longer Laser Engravers, such as Longer Ray5, Longer B1, and the Nano series, allow you to create fantastic works of art on a multiplicity and variety of materials. While many users start with wood or cardboard, glass represents a significant step forward in artistic creation. The ability to transform a common transparent object into a personalized masterpiece with a frosted, elegant finish is one of the most rewarding capabilities of these machines.

Why Glass Is a Unique Material for Laser Engraving

The material preferred by users for high-end gifts and decor is usually clear glass, which can be engraved to create a permanent, sophisticated contrast. However, unlike wood or stone, glass is a transparent and reflective medium. This means the laser beam could potentially pass through it or reflect back without leaving a mark. To overcome this, a professional practical solution is to apply a temporary dark coating, such as black tempera, laser spray, or even dark dish soap, to the surface. This allows the laser to absorb the energy and transfer it to the glass, creating a controlled micro-fracture that results in a beautiful "frosted" effect.

Recommended Glass Engraving Parameters for Longer Laser Engravers

Supposing you want to engrave glass, the following can be considered as basic parameters tailored for each specific Longer Laser Engraver model. These settings are designed to balance speed and power to achieve a crisp mark without overheating the material:

• Longer Nano Pro: Power 80% - Speed 3000 (mm/min)
• Longer Nano: Power 100% - Speed 1000 (mm/min)
• Longer B1 40W: Power 40% - Speed 3000 (mm/min)
• Longer Ray5 10W: Power 80% - Speed 3000 (mm/min)

Note: For all models, when available, keeping the Air Assist active is essential. It helps to cool the surface and clear any vaporized residue from the coating, ensuring the laser beam remains focused and efficient.

In this way, the engravings will be carried out without problems, and the high heat generated by the laser will allow the treated areas of the glass to be precisely frosted. However, since glass is sensitive to thermal shock, it is necessary to avoid "over-cooking" a single spot. A practical solution is to use high-speed passes to distribute the heat evenly. Once the process is finished, simply wash away the temporary coating with water to reveal the permanent, millimetric precision of the design.

Creative Effects and Design Possibilities on Glass

An interesting aspect of engraving on glass is the possibility of playing with nuances and light. By varying the power slightly, you can obtain different textures of frosting, creating effects of depth that are particularly striking when the glass is backlit. This makes glass an ideal material for experimenting with complex graphics, corporate logos, or even stylised portraits. In addition, the low cost of common glassware allows you to make numerous attempts until the desired professional result is achieved.

Glass engravings are used in various practical areas: from the customization of wine glasses and mirrors, to the creation of professional trophies, personalized bottles, and artistic window decorations. Thanks to the millimetric precision of the Longer Laser Engravers, you can reproduce details such as fine text or delicate floral textures with incredible clarity.

Maintenance Tips for Glass Engraving

After engraving, it is advisable to clean the laser module and the lens regularly. Glass engraving, combined with surface coatings, tends to release more fine residue than other materials. A simple wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow efficiency and protect the hardware.

Glass engraving, combined with surface coatings, tends to release more fine residue than other materials. A simple wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow efficiency and protect the hardware.

Why Glass Unlocks Professional Laser Engraving

Ultimately, glass is the gateway to the most productive and professional use of Longer Laser Engravers. It is not simply a transparent surface, but a material with its own intrinsic strategic value for those looking to elevate their portfolio. By mastering the parameters of speed and power, it is not only possible to obtain pieces with clean, frosted lines, but it is possible to have access to artistic creation in a cost-effective and highly impressive way.

FAQ: Glass Laser Engraving with Longer Laser Machines

Q1: Why do I need a coating on glass before engraving?
Because glass is transparent and reflective, a coating helps the laser energy absorb into the surface and create a frosted effect.

Q2: What effect does laser engraving create on glass?
It creates a permanent frosted texture through controlled micro-fracturing of the surface.

Q3: Is Air Assist necessary for glass engraving?
Yes, it helps remove residue and keeps the engraving process stable and clean.

Q4: Can I use Longer Ray5, B1 or Nano for glass engraving?
Yes, both Ray5, B1 and Nano series are capable of engraving glass with proper settings and preparation.

Longer Laser Engravers, such as Longer Ray5, Longer B1, and the Nano series, allow you to create fantastic works of art and personalized items quickly and easily, thanks to their excellent engraving and cutting ability on a multiplicity and variety of materials. While many users focus on natural surfaces like wood or stone, the ability to customize modern electronics and accessories, such as ABS plastic cases for Earphones, opens up a new world of professional and personal possibilities.

Why Choose ABS Plastic for Laser Engraving

The material preferred by tech enthusiasts for its sleek finish and durability is ABS. This common plastic can be engraved with high precision to create permanent, detailed logos or text. However, there is a material that is very different from wood, and much more sensitive to heat, namely plastic. Unlike organic materials that turn into carbon, plastic reacts to the laser by melting or vaporizing, which means great care must be taken during the process to avoid deforming the object.

ABS can be processed with a laser, however, it is essential to carefully set the power and speed parameters, as it is a thermoplastic material. In order to avoid excessive melting of the edges, it is necessary to operate at very high speeds. This allows power to be radiated for brief moments at each point, thus avoiding the possibility of damaging the delicate internal components of electronic cases. The use of air assist is absolutely critical here, as it quickly cools the surface and blows away any fumes, allowing for much faster and more accurate processing without yellowing the plastic.

Recommended ABS Plastic Engraving Parameters

In initial tests on ABS cases, it is good practice to start with a high-speed approach to minimize the zone affected by heat. Supposing you want to engrave a plastic case, the following can be considered as basic parameters, optimized for various Longer Laser Engravers models to ensure a clean mark without compromising the structure:

•  Longer Nano Pro: Power 50% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)
•  Longer Nano: Power 100% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)
•  Longer B1 40W: Power 12.5% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)

• Longer Ray5 10W: Power 50% - Speed 10000 (mm/min)

Note: These parameters are valid for a single pass. When working with plastics, always ensure your workspace is extremely well-ventilated. The vaporization of ABS can release unpleasant odors and fumes that should be extracted immediately to ensure a safe working environment.

In this way, the engravings will be carried out without problems, and the high heat generated by the laser will be managed by the high speed of the module, allowing the engraved areas to be clearly defined. However, since the engraving creates a physical change in the plastic's surface, it is necessary to avoid using too much power, which could cause the material to "bubble" or lose its structural integrity. A practical solution for a cleaner finish is to use a light masking tape over the engraving area to catch any micro-splatters of melted plastic, which can then be peeled away to reveal a perfect result.

Creative Possibilities with Plastic Laser Engraving

An interesting aspect of engraving on plastic is the possibility of playing with the contrast of the material itself. By slightly varying power and speed, lighter or darker marks can be obtained depending on the specific color and composition of the ABS. This makes plastic an ideal material for experimenting with complex graphics, minimalist icons, or even serial numbers and identification tags. In addition, thanks to the precision of Longer Lasers Engravers, you can make numerous attempts on test pieces until the desired professional result is achieved for your final product.

Plastic engravings are used in various practical areas: from the customization of consumer electronics and gift items, to the creation of industrial labels and personalized accessories. Even in small-scale manufacturing, engraving is useful for reproducing details such as technical logos or owner identification. Thanks to the millimetric precision of the Longer Laser Engravers, you can experiment freely until you get the desired professional finish.

Maintenance Tips for Laser Engraving on Plastic

After engraving, it is advisable to clean the countertop and laser module regularly, as plastic tends to release more sticky residues than wood or stone. A simple wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter and the protective glass of the laser should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow and laser efficiency, as plastic vapors can be particularly persistent.

Important Safety Recommendations for ABS Plastic Engraving

As far as we have seen, plastic is not simply a common material, but can be a material with its own intrinsic strategic value for personalization. In fact, its convenience and wide use in everyday objects, combined with the millimetric precision of the Longer Laser Engravers, make it the ideal tool for efficiency and modern customization.

Given the delicate nature of thermoplastics, it is strongly recommended to perform preliminary tests on scrap plastic or an inconspicuous area before proceeding with the final workpiece. Unlike wood or stone, ABS does not offer a wide margin for error; a few percentage points of extra power can result in melting rather than engraving. Monitoring the material's reaction is crucial: if you notice "raised" or bubbly edges around the engraving, it is a clear sign of excessive heat accumulation, and you should immediately increase the speed or reduce the power settings. Furthermore, because the vaporization of ABS releases hydrogen cyanide and other toxic fumes, ensuring that your air assist is at maximum capacity and your workspace is equipped with professional-grade ventilation or an exhaust system is not just a technical requirement, but a fundamental safety protocol for every Longer user. Mastering these "hidden" variables is what truly allows you to achieve a factory-standard finish on high-value electronics.

Unlocking Professional Plastic Engraving with Longer Laser Engravers

Ultimately, ABS and plastics are the gateway to a more technical and commercial use of Longer Laser Engravers, since by mastering the parameters of speed and power, it is not only possible to obtain pieces with clean cuts and hardened edges, but it is possible to have access to artistic and professional creation in a cost-effective way.

FAQ: ABS Plastic Engraving with Longer Laser Engravers

Q1: Can Longer Laser Engravers engrave ABS plastic?
Yes, Longer Ray5, Longer B1, and Nano series machines can engrave ABS plastic with proper speed and power settings.

Q2: Why is high speed important for ABS engraving?
High speed helps reduce heat accumulation and prevents melting or deformation of the plastic surface.

Q3: Is air assist necessary for plastic engraving?
Yes, air assist is critical for cooling the material, removing fumes, and improving engraving precision.

Q4: What safety precautions should be taken when engraving ABS?
Always use strong ventilation or an exhaust system, as ABS vaporization can release harmful fumes during laser processing.

When working with laser engraving, adjusting engraving angles and enabling crosshatch (cross) scanning can significantly improve the final output. Understanding how these features work—and how to use them properly—will help you achieve smoother, more detailed, and professional-looking engravings.

What Is an Engraving Angle?

The engraving angle allows users to set a specific angle for each engraving pass. Before each processing cycle, you can define an angle at which the laser will engrave the material.

• The first pass follows the initial angle you set.
• Each subsequent pass increases by the defined angle increment.

What Is Crosshatch (Cross) Scanning?

Crosshatch scanning is a feature where the machine performs two engraving passes automatically:

• The first scan follows the initial engraving angle.
• The second scan rotates 90 degrees and engraves again.

Why Use These Features?

Using multiple engraving angles or crosshatch scanning offers several benefits:

• Produces more uniform and refined results
• Reduces visible engraving lines or banding
• Enhances depth and texture
• Allows for creative visual effects from different directions

How to Use Engraving Angle and Crosshatch Scanning

Step 1: Create or Import Your Design

Use the left-side toolbar to:

• Import images
• Insert shapes
• Add text
• Draw vector graphics

Step 2: Set Processing Parameters

1. Select the object on the canvas.
2. Go to the parameter panel on the right (in LaserBurn).
3. Adjust the engraving settings:
   • Set the engraving angle (e.g., 20°)
   • Enable crosshatch scanning

Example Setting

If you set the engraving angle to 20° and enable crosshatch scanning:

• The first pass will engrave at 20°
• The second pass will automatically rotate 90° and engrave again (i.e., at 110°)

This dual-direction engraving improves detail and creates a smoother finish.

Final Tips

• Use smaller angle increments for finer textures
• Combine crosshatch with multiple passes for high-detail materials
• Test on scrap material before final production

If your RAY5 Mini or Mini S laser engraver is producing unclear or blurry results, the issue is usually related to focus, settings, or material compatibility. Follow the steps below to troubleshoot and improve your engraving quality.

1. Check the Laser Focus

Incorrect focus is the most common cause of poor engraving.

• Use the focus block that comes with your machine
• Adjust the laser head until the correct focal distance is achieved
• Make sure the laser spot is as small and sharp as possible

A properly focused laser ensures clean lines and better detail.

2. Verify S-Value Settings in LightBurn

In LightBurn:

• Go to Edit → Device Settings
• Check that S-Value Max = 1000

If this value is incorrect, your laser power output may not match your settings, resulting in weak or inconsistent engraving.

3. Check Your Engraving Parameters

Incorrect parameters can significantly affect engraving quality.

Pay special attention to:

• Speed (and its unit: mm/min vs mm/s)
• Power percentage
• Number of passes

Refer to the official parameter table for your material when possible.

In LaserGRBL:

• Set S-MAX = 10 × laser power percentage
• Example: 100% power → S-MAX should be 1000

4. Enable Constant Power Mode

Make sure your laser is running in constant power mode (usually M3 mode):

• This ensures consistent energy output during engraving
• Prevents uneven or faded results

5. Inspect and Clean the Lens (Window Mirror)

A dirty lens can reduce laser strength and clarity.

• Check the laser head window (lens) for dust or residue
• If dirty, gently clean it using lens cleaning paper, or A lint-free cloth with a small amount of alcohol

⚠️ Avoid applying pressure to prevent damaging the coating.

Final Tips for Better Engraving Results

• Always test settings on scrap material first
• Use high-contrast materials for clearer results
• Keep your machine clean and well-maintained

What Is an Engraving Scan Path?

The engraving scan path refers to the path settings that determine the order and method in which the laser module scans and engraves objects during processing.

Different scan path options will affect:

• Processing time
• Operation sequence

How Does It Work?

1. Whole Engraving (Single Layer Engraving)

All objects on the canvas are engraved at once without distinguishing priority or sequence.

For filled engraving objects with the same parameters:

• The laser scans from bottom to top and left to right
• The laser processes these areas sequentially within a single scan

As a result, the overall processing time is usually longer.

2. Object-by-Object Engraving (Multi-Layer Engraving)

Objects are engraved one by one according to the defined order and direction.

• The laser completes one object before moving to the next
• The movement distance between objects is shorter

As a result, the processing time is usually shorter.

3. How to Use It?

The scan path for objects with different parameters will be displayed accordingly.

Example:

(1) When engraving three filled objects on the current canvas:

• Objects with the same parameters will be grouped together
• A total of three groups will be generated (Group 1, Group 2, Group 3)
• Each group contains one object

What is “by layer"?

For complex vector graphics, using layers helps manage objects more efficiently. Vector line colors are used to define layers, and objects within the same layer share the same processing parameters.

You can easily select and move objects across layers, simplifying your design workflow.

After enabling “By Layer” in the processing settings, you only need to adjust the layer order to define the processing sequence of your design.

How Does It Work?

The processing order follows the vertical layer order, from top to bottom.

The order is not affected by layer numbering. To change the order, simply left-click and hold the layer you want to move, then drag it to your desired position.

How to Use It?

(1) Create Objects

Use the tools in the left toolbar to create objects. You can import images, insert shapes, input text, or draw vector graphics as needed.

(2) Assign Layers

Right-click the object you want to adjust, then select a layer.

(3) Arrange Layer Order

Click the layer icon at the bottom and arrange the layers as needed.
In this example, the circle is placed last, while the triangle and polygon are placed first.

(4) Preview

After completing all preprocessing steps, click the “Preview” button to enter the preview page.

On the preview page:

• Black lines represent the processing path
• The “+” icon represents the processing starting point

The machine will cut the circle first, then engrave the triangle and polygon vectors.

Tips for Better Results

• Always check the preview before processing
• Adjust layer order carefully to match your design needs
• Use consistent colors to manage layers more clearly

Longer laser engravers, such as the Longer Ray5 10W/20W Laser Engraver (the best laser engraver for beginners), the Longer Ray5 40W Laser, the Engraver Longer B1 30W/40W Laser Engraving Machine (the best laser engraver for small business), Longer Nano Pro Portable Laser Engraver ( The best laser engraver for craft fairs), allow you to create intricate works of art on a vast variety of materials. While wood is a common starting point, the versatility of these laser cutter and engraver machines extends dramatically to harder, more durable surfaces, like stone, offering a completely different aesthetic and final product.

Why Choose Stone for Laser Engraving

The material preferred by users for its natural elegance and striking contrast is usually dark slate, which can be engraved with high precision and is highly durable. Engraved slate is perfect for creating a sophisticated, timeless look, much more durable than most organic materials, particularly for items like coasters, plaques, and decorative tiles.

Cardboard can also be processed with a laser; however, great care must be taken, as it is easily flammable. In order to avoid this, it is essential to carefully set the power and speed parameters. Stone, on the other hand, presents no fire risk but requires precise parameter settings to achieve clear, sharp contrasts. The material’s density dictates a completely different approach compared to engraving wood or cardboard, focusing on achieving a bright, precise mark without fracturing the surface. The use of air assist is still highly recommended to remove fine stone dust and keep the workspace clean, allowing for faster and more accurate processing.

Getting Started: Basic Parameters for Slate

In initial tests on slate, it is good practice to start applying settings that allow for a clean, single-pass marking. This allows the laser to ablate a fine surface layer to expose a lighter shade, creating the detailed image. Supposing you want to engrave slate, the following can be considered as basic parameters, tested on a 12W Longer Nano Pro:

Speed: 6000 mm/min
Power: 50%
Steps: 1 pass

These parameters provide a fast yet efficient starting point for clear engravings. Note that different laser powers will require adjustments (e.g., using a 20W or 30W module, you may be able to significantly increase the speed or decrease the power and possibly proceed with the necessary adjustments, doing tests).

Achieving Striking Contrast and Longevity

In this way, the engravings will be carried out with striking contrast, where the dark slate reveals a light, detailed pattern. However, since the engraving is a physical removal of a surface layer, it is necessary to avoid touching the engraved areas with abrasive materials; otherwise, they will be removed and compromised. A practical solution is to apply a light, food-safe mineral oil or a clear matte coat so as to protect the result, deepen the black areas, and make the engraving more durable and permanent.

Creative Possibilities with Stone

An interesting aspect of engraving on stone is the possibility of playing with subtle variations, creating deep engravings or light surface markings. This makes stone an ideal material for experimenting with complex graphics, illustrations, or even stylized photographs, where the high resolution of Longer Laser Engravers shines. In addition, thanks to its durability, stone creations can be made for both indoor and outdoor use.

Stone engravings are used in various practical areas:

• Customization of kitchenware and personalized gifts
• Creation of stencils, architectural accents, and artistic plaques
• Commercial applications, such as high-quality branded items and detailed signs

Thanks to the precise power control, you can experiment freely until you get the desired result.

Maintenance Tips for Stone Engraving

After engraving, it is advisable to clean the countertop and laser module regularly, as stone tends to release fine, abrasive dust. A simple wipe with a damp microfiber cloth avoids accumulations that could compromise the precision of subsequent processing. The air assist filter should also be checked periodically to maintain constant airflow efficiency.

Why Stone is an Exceptional Laser Engraving Material

As far as we have seen, stone is not simply a hard material but an exceptional canvas with its own intrinsic strategic value. In fact, its convenience and easy availability (particularly slate), combined with the millimetric precision of Longer Laser Engravers, make it the ideal tool for efficiency and experimentation.

Ultimately, stone is a superb material to master using Longer Laser Engravers, since by mastering the parameters of speed and power, it is not only possible to obtain pieces with clean lines and high contrast, but it is also possible to have access to artistic creation that is sophisticated, permanent, and highly cost-effective.

This guide explains how to use the LaserBurn PC software to perform engraving with the Ray5 mini. It covers software download, device connection, file import, parameter setup, and engraving steps.

Steps

1. Software Download

First, go to the Longer official website to download the LaserBurn PC software. Install it and then open the software.

2. Device Connection

After opening the software, click "Device" to connect the machine. In the pop-up window, select the Ray5 mini image and click "Confirm". Then choose the correct port and click "Connect". When "Ray5 mini" appears in the device window, the connection is successful.

Import File and Start Engraving

Click the icon in the upper left corner and select "Import" to load the image to be engraved into the software. Then click the layer option and double-click the corresponding layer to modify the engraving parameters and confirm.

Before starting engraving, click "Reset" on the machine, then click "Engraving". Click "Border" to confirm the engraving position, and finally click "Start Engraving".

Conclusion

By following the above steps, you can successfully complete engraving with the Ray5 mini using LaserBurn PC software. Proper device connection, parameter setup, and positioning ensure accurate and efficient engraving results.

Finding the right settings for laser engraving or cutting can be challenging, especially with different materials. LaserBurn makes this process easier with its built-in material library. By following a few simple steps, you can quickly generate the optimal parameters for your project.

1. Access the material library

In LaserBurn, click the “Unknown” button at the top-right corner of the interface.

2. Select Your Material and Confirm

• Choose the material you want to engrave or cut.
• Click Confirm to apply the selection.

3. Generate the Parameter Matrix

After confirming the material:

• Go to the Layer page.
• Select the layer you want to set parameters for.
• Click Parameter Matrix to view the matrix effect chart.
• Choose the effect that matches your desired result.

4. Apply the Parameters Automatically

Once you select the desired effect:

• LaserBurn will automatically fill the chosen parameters into the parameter input fields.
• No manual input is needed, saving time and reducing errors.

Conclusion