Power vs Speed Test with LaserGRBL for Longer Ray5 & B1

The LONGER Ray5 and LONGER B1 laser engravers are capable of engraving and cutting a wide range of materials with high precision and efficiency. However, achieving optimal results requires careful adjustment of processing parameters—particularly laser power and engraving speed, as different materials respond uniquely to laser energy.

Understanding Material Response to Laser Settings

Materials react differently when exposed to laser energy. For metals in particular, variations in power output and movement speed can significantly affect the engraving outcome.

By fine-tuning these parameters, users can achieve different surface oxidation levels and heat effects, which can produce subtle color variations on metal surfaces. This controlled thermal interaction is the foundation of multicolor laser engraving on metal, a technique widely used in decorative and industrial applications.

Both the LONGER Ray5 (5W) and LONGER B1 are capable of metal engraving. However, the B1 offers superior stability and higher power capability, making it more suitable for advanced applications such as multicolor metal engraving.

Using LaserGRBL for Parameter Optimization

To achieve precise and repeatable results, LaserGRBL provides a built-in tool called Power vs Speed Test, which allows users to quickly identify optimal engraving parameters for specific materials.

Step 1: Access the Power vs Speed Test Tool

From the LaserGRBL main interface:

Select:

Generate → Power vs Speed Test

This will open the parameter configuration window.

Step 2: Configure Power Settings

LaserGRBL uses a scaled power system:

• S-10 = 1% power
• S-1000 = 100% power

For testing purposes, it is recommended to define a power range such as:

• Minimum: 100
• Maximum: 1000
• Step size: 10

This allows fine-grained control over laser output for accurate material testing.

Step 3: Configure Speed Settings

Next, define engraving speed based on material type:

• Wood: approximately 3000–9000 mm/min
• Metal & steel: approximately 100–1500 mm/min

A recommended configuration is to use 7 steps for balanced testing coverage.

Step 4: Set Line Density (Quality)

The engraving resolution can be adjusted using line density settings:

• Recommended range: 8000–12000 lines/mm

Higher values result in finer detail but longer processing time.

Step 5: Generate the Test File

After configuring parameters, click:

“Create!”

LaserGRBL will generate a test pattern combining multiple power and speed combinations for evaluation.

Step 6: Export and Run the Test

To proceed:

1. Select File → Save (Advanced Option)
2. Export the generated file as G-code
3. Transfer it to a microSD card or device storage
4. Run the test on the LONGER Ray5 or B1

Alternatively, the test can also be executed directly via USB connection using the Cutting Test mode, if preferred.

Step 7: Analyze Results and Optimize Settings

After completion, carefully inspect the engraved test pattern. The variations in tone, depth, and clarity will help determine the most suitable combination of power and speed for your specific material and desired effect.

This calibration process is essential for achieving consistent high-quality results, especially in advanced applications such as metal marking and multicolor engraving.

Conclusion

By leveraging the Power vs Speed Test in LaserGRBL, users of the LONGER Ray5 and B1 can efficiently identify optimal engraving parameters for different materials. While both machines are capable of metal engraving, the B1 provides enhanced performance and stability, making it the preferred choice for precision-driven and multicolor metal engraving applications.