LONGER How to: The Impact of Line Interval on Image Quality in LightBurn

LONGER How to: The Impact of Line Interval on Image Quality in LightBurn

ABSTRACT
When using LightBurn for laser engraving and cutting, line interval is a critical parameter that directly affects the detail and visual quality of the final image. It also has a significant impact on the overall engraving time. This article uses the NANO Pro laser engraver as an example to explore how adjusting line interval settings can influence engraving results.

CONTENTS

1.What Is Line Interval?

2. How Line Interval Affects Image Quality

3. Recommended Line Interval Settings for NANO Pro

4. Recommended NANO Pro Line Interval Values

5. Conclusion

1. What Is Line Interval?
Line interval (also known as line spacing) refers to the distance between adjacent scan lines during the engraving process. It determines how frequently the laser head moves across the surface and how densely it covers the material. This setting directly affects image sharpness, detail resolution, and processing time.

2. How Line Interval Affects Image Quality

In LightBurn, the line interval can be adjusted according to the project’s requirements. Several key factors should be considered:

a) Impact on Image Engraving

Material Type:
Different materials respond differently to line interval settings. For instance, wood and acrylic may exhibit vastly different engraving results at the same interval.

Engraving Detail:
When engraving highly detailed designs or fine text, a smaller line interval typically produces better results. The laser head covers more surface area, reducing gaps and improving image precision.

Engraving Speed:
A larger line interval can reduce the overall engraving time, but it may also lead to loss of fine detail—especially in intricate designs.

b) Material Ablation Effects

Material Response:
On some materials like wood, a very small line interval can cause overburning or excessive material removal. On the other hand, for metal or glass, a carefully chosen interval can help maintain clean and precise engraving without damaging the surface.

c) Texture and Artistic Style

Visual Style:
Line interval not only affects clarity but also contributes to the overall artistic style. A smaller interval provides smoother gradients and shading, while a larger interval can produce visible scan lines, which may be desirable for certain stylized effects.

3. Recommended Line Interval Settings for NANO Pro

In LightBurn, adjusting the line interval is straightforward. Follow these steps:
Open LightBurn and import your image.
On the right side of the interface, click “Cuts / Layers”.
Double-click on Layer 00 to open the Cut Settings Editor.
Find the option labeled “Line Interval”, and input your desired value.

4. Recommended NANO Pro Line Interval Values:
0.03 mm:
Ideal for projects requiring high detail, such as fine patterns or small text. Offers maximum coverage but significantly increases engraving time.

0.06 mm:
A well-balanced option suitable for most materials and general engraving tasks. It provides solid detail reproduction while maintaining reasonable engraving speed. (Highly recommended)

0.09 mm:
Suitable for simpler designs or when faster processing is required. This interval increases speed but may sacrifice some fine detail in more complex images.

0.12 mm:
Best used for basic designs or large fill areas where speed is more important than precision. This setting greatly reduces engraving time but is not ideal for detailed work.

5. Conclusion
Line interval is one of the most influential parameters in determining the final quality of images produced in LightBurn. By thoughtfully adjusting this setting, users can achieve a balance between engraving speed, image clarity, and artistic expression. We hope this guide helps you better understand and utilize line interval settings to elevate the quality of your laser engraving projects with LightBurn. 

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