PLH3D-XT8 laser kit for CNC machines and 3D printers - Opt Lasers

The PLH3D-XT8 laser head kit from Opt Lasers is a patented, plug-and-play upgrade designed for seamless integration with CNC machines and some FDM 3D printers, offering hyper-performance and precision. It stands out as an ideal solution for high-speed cutting tasks and thick material processing, reaching a maximum depth of 20 mm. If you need a laser head for high-detail work, see the PLH3D XT50 kit.

Video 1: The PLH3D-XT8 laser kit for CNC machines. Source: Opt Lasers.

Designed for both crafting and industrial applications, it delivers CO2-like results with enhanced ease of use and setup. Opt Lasers' years of experience in the industry have produced a low-power, minimal heat laser solution, making it efficient for even the most demanding jobs while keeping energy consumption and heat generation in check.

The hardware

The PLH3D-XT8 kit includes all essential components to seamlessly integrate with any CNC machine. The kit comes with the PLH3D-XT8 45 W cutting and engraving laser head (1), a universal CNC mount (M3 x 0.5 x 3 mm) (9), connection cables (7), the PLH3D CNC Adapter Pro (2) with a signal cable (6), a PSU with various adapters (5), laser safety glasses (3), an OptiShield beam cover (4), a height reference tool for precise working distance adjustments (up to 21 mm) (8), and a set of CNC laser stickers (10).

Image 1: The contents of the PLH3D-XT8 laser kit. Source: Opt Lasers.

Each part is crafted to ensure quick installation (Manual in Attachments section), allowing users to start working efficiently from the moment it's unboxed. Optional accessories (not included in this kit, must be purchased separately) include a magnetic LaserDock Pro module for simultaneous connection for electricity and compressed air, as well as a laser safety window for CNC machines with enclosures.

The XT8 laser head

The core of the PLH3D-XT8 laser head is its multi-laser diode technology, which provides cutting-edge performance with the help of blue light technology - a safer, more affordable but equally powerful alternative to CO2 lasers. Emitting a 450 nm wavelength, its focused beam spot diameter of <180 μm allows for extreme precision, from intricate engraving to cutting through thicker materials with ease. The impressive focus depth and extended beam waist reduce the need for frequent adjustments, enabling single-pass cuts and saving significant time in the workflow.

Image 2: The XT8 laser head. Source: Opt Lasers.

Additionally, the XT8 offers a dual power mode: a 50% power mode for delicate engravings and a 100% power mode for fast, powerful cutting, enhancing both its versatility and energy efficiency (with a maximum consumption of 170 W). The laser head itself is compact, measuring 76 x 89 x 194 mm, and lightweight, at around 1 kg.

The inbuilt driver

An outstanding feature of the XT8 is its compact, integrated diode driver. Built directly into the laser head, the proximity of the driver to the laser diodes allows for ultra-high frequency modulation (up to 30 kHz), ensuring rapid response times and precise control, even during intricate tasks like tight-radius turns.

Image 3: The diode driver integrated into the laser head ensures quick and precise results. Source: Opt Lasers.

With a maximum driver current of 6 A, and typical operation between 3-4 A, the driver guarantees longevity and reliability. Added safeguards include electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, reverse voltage protection, overcurrent protection, and a built-in microcontroller for temperature monitoring and soft-start functionality, all contributing to the laser’s durability and user safety.

The CNC Adapter Pro

The PLH3D CNC Adapter Pro, included in the kit, ensures seamless communication between the CNC machine and the laser head. It provides important safety features, including laser head connection detection, laser status display, and system restart capabilities after power failures. Advanced users can take advantage of additional settings for customization, while the PWM/TTL modulation input allows for dynamic laser power control.

Image 4: The CNC adapter allows for advanced control of the XT8 laser head. Source: Opt Lasers.

It also includes a test mode for troubleshooting, making it easier to identify and resolve any potential issues during operation. For even more safety, the CNC adapter comes with keys to prevent unauthorized access.

Cutting and engraving speeds

The XT8 laser head is a very powerful tool that can work with a wide spectrum of materials including plastics, leather, wood, textiles, and metals like anodized aluminum, stainless steel, tool steel, and titanium. Table 1 resumes the cutting and engraving speeds offered by the XT8 laser kit with various materials. 

Table 1: The laser cutting and engraving speeds of the XT8 laser head. Source: Opt Lasers.

As shown in the table, the XT8 laser head is capable of processing most materials in only one pass, regardless of the thickness.

Image 5: Plexiglass, stainless steel, fabric, wood, foam and leather cut with the Xt8 laser head. Source: Opt Lasers.

The XT8 laser can even handle materials that are one of the most challenging to process by laser cutting and engraving, such as stainless steel, tool steel, acrylic, or glass and carbon fiber materials. 

Safety and longevity

Constructed with a full-metal body, direct soldering and short thick wires, the XT8 laser head offers exceptional durability and protection. Operational safety is enhanced by an integrated signaling LED light, which alerts users to overheating and indicates the armed status of the laser. A highly efficient copper heatpipe heatsink, combined with an external heatsink, provides advanced cooling, ensuring optimal operating temperatures even during extended use.

Image 6: The sturdy metal body and LED light ensure user safety. Source: Opt Lasers.

Additionally, the high-pressure air-assist nozzle (adjustable) accelerates cutting by up to six times and minimizes heat-related damage to the processed material. The safety features of the PLH3D-XT8 laser head kit are further enhanced with the inclusion of the OptiShield beam cover, which not only minimizes laser light reflection but also aids in cooling the laser head.

Image 7: The efficient heatsink design ensures optimal cooling and longevity. Source: Opt Lasers.

The CE-rated 450 nm laser safety glasses are another valuable addition, offering an optical density (OD) of 7+ across the 190-540 nm range. With 50% visible light transmission, these glasses ensure clear visibility while providing significant protection from blue laser exposure and diffusely reflected radiation, making them indispensable for safe operation.

Upgrade your CNC machine

The PLH3D-XT8 laser head kit from Opt Lasers is a patented, plug-and-play upgrade for CNC machines, designed for high-performance precision tasks. Ideal for both high-speed cutting and thick material processing, the XT8 delivers CO2 laser-like results with enhanced ease of use and improved safety.

Video 2: Engraving a logo with the PLH3D-XT8 laser kit. Source: Opt Lasers.

Suitable for both crafting and industrial applications, this laser solution combines low power consumption and minimal heat generation, making it efficient and reliable for even the most demanding tasks while maintaining energy efficiency.