Keeping the laser lens and the laser mirrors clean is critical to the running of the laser cutter. Over time, dust, grease, and other contaminants can build up on these components, reducing the efficiency of the laser and even harming the optics. Regular cleaning prevents these issues, extends the life of your laser cutter, and keeps it running with good condition.
When to Clean the Laser Lens and the Laser Mirrors?
How often you should clean your optics depends on your environment and the materials you’re working with. As a general rule, it’s ought to inspect and clean your laser lens, the second and third laser mirrors daily. These parts are closer to the materials, so they get dirty faster.
If you work all the time with wood and acrylic deep engraving, you might need to check and clean the lens twice a day. Besides, once a week, be sure to give all the laser mirrors, the laser lens, the beam combiner, and the tube dust cover a thorough cleaning to keep everything clean.
What to Prepare Before Cleaning?
1. Safety First
Before your cleaning, make sure the laser button is completely turned off and the optics have cooled down. The optical components will be hot after the machine has been running, and you definitely don’t want to burn yourself. Never clean the laser lens or other laser optics while the cutter is on—it’s just asking for trouble.
2. Tools You’ll Need
Using the right tools is key to maintaining your laser lens and laser mirrors. Here’s what you’ll need.
- Dust free cloth
- Cotton swabs
- Lens cleaning solution
- A blowing ball
And don’t forget to wear protective gloves to keep fingerprints and oils from getting on the optics while you’re cleaning.
Steps to Clean the Optical Components
1. Take apart the Laser Lens and the Laser Mirrors
Use the included kit to take apart the optics for thoroughly cleaning. Be very careful during disassembly to avoid breaking the lens or scratching the mirror, and you can put a cloth on the honeycomb directly under the laser head, so that even if you miss, the parts will fall on the cloth, avoiding injuries and making it easier to find the parts.
Explore more on how to dissasemble laser lens and laser mirrors by checking out:
2. Blow off the Dust
Start by using the blowing ball to gently blow any dust or particles off the surface of the optics. Avoid using your mouth to blow on them, as saliva can cause more contamination. Using the blowing ball is a safe way to remove dust without touching the laser lens and laser mirrors.
3. Wipe the Optics with Cleaning Solution
If there are any stubborn smudges or spots, apply a bit of laser lens cleaning solution to your dust free cloth or cotton swab. You have two ways to do this: wipe the laser lens and laser mirror with a dust free cloth or cotton swabs dipped in the cleaning solution; or spray the cleaning solution directly onto the laser lens and laser mirror and then wipe them.
Gently wipe the lenses and mirrors in a circular motion or a Z-pattern, starting from the center and moving outward. Be careful not to press too hard—you don’t want to scratch the surface, especially if the optics have anti-reflective coatings.
clean the laser lens
clean a laser mirror
4. Check Your Work
After cleaning, inspect the laser lens and the laser mirrors under a bright light to make sure there’s no residue left. You can tilt the laser lens or the laser mirrors at an angle to check for any remaining smudges or spots. If you still see any dirt, repeat the cleaning process until everything is spotless. Then you can put them back in place and install them.
FAQs
Can I use regular tissues or cloths to clean the optics?
Nope! Regular tissues or cloths can leave fibers behind and may even scratch the optical surfaces. Stick with the dust-free cloths and it’s the right choice.
Is it okay to clean the laser lens and the laser mirrors with water?
Avoid using water, especially tap water, as it can leave mineral deposits on the laser lens and laser mirrors. Instead, use the specifical cleaning solution.
What should I do if the optics are damaged?
If you notice scratches or other damage on the laser lens and laser mirrors, it’s best to reach out to your manufacturer for replacements. Damaged optics can seriously affect laser performance and focus.
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