Questions? We’ve Got You Covered
From choosing the right laser machine to daily operation, maintenance, and application guidance, our FAQ helps you get clear answers and make confident decisions.
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Laser Machines
Bolt Series
Nova Series
Nova Plus Series
Titan ＆ Titan Pro Series
Aurora Series
SLM-175
Safety & Operation
What are the lens options and when should I use each?
Nova Plus and Titan series machines support four interchangeable lens sizes:
- 1.5" lens — very fine engraving and thin material cutting; up to 2000 DPI. Best for detailed artwork and small text.
- 2" lens — general-purpose engraving and cutting with a tighter spot than the standard.
- 2.5" lens — the standard included lens, ideal for everyday tasks.
- 4" lens — for cutting thicker materials (10 mm and above), where a longer focal length maintains energy density through greater depth.
Lens changes are straightforward: press the tracheal joint to remove the air pipe, loosen the copper screw, and swap the lens tube. Always reconnect the air pipe after — running without it can damage the lens.
What software does Thunder Laser use? Does it work on Mac and Linux?
Thunder Laser machines are compatible with most popular laser software options, including LightBurn, RDWorks V8, and LaserMaker.
The machine can be connected via USB or Ethernet cable. A USB flash drive is included with every machine, providing software installers, machine-specific scan offset calibration settings, parameter libraries, and video tutorials. For the best engraving quality, please load the calibration settings into your preferred software before your first job.
How do I focus the laser on my material?
Thunder Laser machines mainly offer two methods:
Manual Focus: Use the included focusing tool (attached to the cone module). Raise the motorized honeycomb table from the control panel until the bottom of the focusing tool just touches the material surface — that distance sets your optimal focal length.
Auto Focus: Place the material on the table, position the laser head above it, and press Z/U → Auto Focus → Enter on the control panel. The table rises and lowers automatically until the cone-head touch sensor confirms the correct focal distance.
Important: The auto-focus touch sensor may not work properly on certain materials. For materials that cannot be auto-focused, please use manual focus instead.
What exhaust and ventilation do I need?
Proper fume extraction is mandatory — do not operate the machine without it. The included exhaust fan connects to a 100 mm (3.9") diameter duct (length up to 3,300 mm / 130") that routes smoke and fumes to the outside.
For installations where outdoor routing is not feasible, use an inline fume filtration unit with appropriate activated carbon and HEPA filters. Check all ducting connections for leaks before every use — most small gaps can be sealed with duct tape. National and regional regulations on workplace air quality thresholds must be observed, and appropriate filter systems selected accordingly.
For installations where outdoor routing is not feasible, use an inline fume filtration unit with appropriate activated carbon and HEPA filters. Check all ducting connections for leaks before every use — most small gaps can be sealed with duct tape. National and regional regulations on workplace air quality thresholds must be observed, and appropriate filter systems selected accordingly.
How do I pause the job and safely open the lid?
Press the PAUSE button on the machine panel before lifting the lid. The safety system will also automatically stop the laser the moment the lid is opened, but pausing first ensures your job can be resumed from where it left off without losing progress.
Forcing the lid open mid-job without pausing will result in an abrupt stop that cannot always be resumed cleanly, potentially ruining the workpiece. Always pause, wait for the laser head to stop moving, then open the lid.
Forcing the lid open mid-job without pausing will result in an abrupt stop that cannot always be resumed cleanly, potentially ruining the workpiece. Always pause, wait for the laser head to stop moving, then open the lid.
How does the air assist system work, and should I always use it?
The dual air assist system directs a controlled stream of air onto the cutting or engraving point. It does two things: it keeps the focusing lens clean and cool, and it clears debris and smoke from the cutting gap — reducing flare-ups and improving edge quality.
Best practice:
Thunder Laser machines include an air pump. For demanding production work, upgrading to an external air compressor is recommended for stronger, more consistent air flow.
Best practice:
- Always enable air assist when vector cutting
- Use high-volume air assist for cutting
- Use low-volume air assist for engraving (raster mode)
Thunder Laser machines include an air pump. For demanding production work, upgrading to an external air compressor is recommended for stronger, more consistent air flow.
What materials must never be processed with a CO2 laser?
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) must never be cut or engraved under any circumstances. Burning PVC releases chlorine gas — a toxic, corrosive substance that is harmful to operators and will permanently damage the machine's optics and internal components.
Also avoid:
When in doubt, always test a small sample at low power in a well-ventilated area before proceeding with a full job.
Also avoid:
- Carbon fiber — conductive dust can cause short circuits and void the warranty
- Unknown plastics — many release toxic fumes when lased
- Materials with unknown adhesives or coatings — always verify composition first
- Polycarbonate at depth — tends to discolor and melt rather than cut cleanly
When in doubt, always test a small sample at low power in a well-ventilated area before proceeding with a full job.
Do I need safety glasses when operating the machine?
During normal enclosed operation, safety glasses are not required — the housing fully contains the beam. However, safety glasses must be worn during:
Beam alignment should only be performed by trained personnel. Never attempt to view the laser beam directly or through reflective surfaces.
- Cleaning optical components (lenses and mirrors)
- Beam path alignment and maintenance
- Any task requiring opening the machine panels while it may be powered
Beam alignment should only be performed by trained personnel. Never attempt to view the laser beam directly or through reflective surfaces.
Can I run the laser machine unattended?
No — never run a laser unattended. Materials such as wood and acrylic can ignite during cutting, especially at higher power levels. The built-in heat alarm system will stop the job and sound a warning if the worktable temperature exceeds 55°C, but it is not a substitute for direct supervision. Always remain present while the machine is operating and keep a CO2 fire extinguisher nearby and accessible.
Is a Thunder Laser machine safe to use?
Thunder Laser machines are built with fully enclosed laser protection systems and are designed to meet FDA safety requirements. The internal CO₂ laser source is powerful, but during normal operation, the laser beam remains contained within the enclosure. Multiple interlocking safety systems are also integrated to support safe and reliable use.
- Automatic lid-open protection that instantly stops the job
- Emergency stop button for immediate shutdown
- Heat alarm system that triggers at 55°C / 131°F
- Warning light (green = safe, red = working)
- Fully enclosed housing that blocks all laser radiation during operation
Always follow the operation manual, wear safety glasses during maintenance tasks, and never bypass or disable any safety interlock.
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