I came in this morning to try work out how to use job control seeing as Ruby is currently offline, and sadly found the laser in quite a state.
The lens was filthy, coated in a thick layer of residue (which I can only assume was caused by extensive flaming). I spent 45 minutes cleaning it via repeated baths in lens cleaning solution and wiping clean, however during that process I noticed the lens housing is also damaged to the point the lens is not sitting flat in the housing, thus no way of guaranteeing the lens is in focus. This damage has been caused by over tightening of the collar causing it to crack. Theres been attempted repair jobs in the past using glue that is no longer holding and the excess glue has got inside the bed of the housing which again means the lens cant sit completely flat.
As far as we are concerned the lens + housing needs replacing. So until Ruby + Lens are fixed/replaced I don’t think its wise for the laser to be used until Martyn can get down on Monday and assess the situation, We have left a sign on the laser saying so.
The inside of the lens collar was also coated in a sticky, black residue. Again, which can only be caused by extensive flaming. But to the degree it was coated was completely unacceptable.
Before:
After:
We all need to respect the laser, it is a very valuable, high precision piece of equipment that is very sensitive to issues like this, and can cause big issues, not to mention starting a fire.
If you are operating the laser and see flames even for a millisecond, STOP the job IMMEDIATELY. You can do this by clicking stop (I always leave the cursor on the stop button for rapid stopping, the computer will still respond even when the screen is asleep), simply opening the laser causing the interlock to open and stopping the beam firing. Yes its frustrating losing your cut but this is becoming a constant issue.
Never cut non-laser grade materials on the laser. For example normal general use plywood. If you are unsure about if a material is laser friendly, stop and ask a tech, and check online, never just hope for the best, please.
Sorry to be all doom and gloom but situations like this need to be clearly communicated. I am always available to help with any laser questions, including how I setup my cut files for the most efficient cutting experience, and general use of the machine in a safe and precise manner. (Ive been a laser operator for years now) As are the laser techs, Martyn and Brendon (I am in the process of becoming the third tech 
)
Thanks everyone, Again I am not trying to accuse or start any issues, we all need to respect the space we all share.
