Hi all
I’m interested in joining (not yet a member). I’m a designer-maker who works exclusively with wood & acrylic, so am interested in using the laser cutter.
I hope this isn’t too much of a sensitive question, but how often does it break down? When it does break down how long is it usually out of action for?
Best wishes
Sarah
Hi Sarah.
Good good question…
Since it had its major refurbishment (new tube) it has been out of action twice. First time was when the lens got damaged by Ill use, meaning we had to save up for a new lens. Second time was when a pulley malfunction sent us on a wild goose chase of trying to fix it ourselves for several months. This turned out to be folly…but meant that historically the time out of action has been ‘long’ whenever its been out of action.
However, for a member-volunteer run group it’s pretty much par for the course, as things aren’t fixed until a member has time to do it.
But: it’s a fantastic laser cutter, so don’t be put off by past history. Also: have a backup plan if a project is time critical.
To paraphrase another member: ‘deadlines and groups such as ours don’t generally make a great combination’
Yep, you shouldn’t be relying on it if it’s an efficient business you’re trying to run!
I’m not sure we’ve quite finished the discussion about commercial use of the laser cut either…