Gerald is showing much reduced power

[DefProc]

While some of this is likely because of the seasonably warm weather, I'm still expecting Gerald to be able to cut 3mm acrylic faster than a speed of 3…

I suspect that the tube power supply may be on the way out, and the lens is certainly due for renewal — #106 — but this could even be a caused by low coolant flow rate in the tube.

Investigation ensues.

[DefProc]

This has become worse. I saw a cut fade out across a sheet in what should have been an easy cut (mostly line engraving with boundary cuts through 1.5mm birch ply) with a coolant temperature of 22°C.

None of the cutouts worked, and the line engraving faded to be invisible by the end.

I have a test proceedure for checking the power supply (run with a false load and check the current), just waiting on the required load details so I can check Gerald.

[DefProc]

The tests for power supply function do not seem to be conclusive (wiki.melbournemakerspace.org/Laser Cutter Status) so the simplest option is to replace the likely culprit.

I've ordered a replacement supply (80W) that's expected early next week.

[DefProc]

I've switched the power supply (no marked effect) and we've additionally added the new chiller and extractor fan — both from the #106 — Speed 5 and power 100 now cuts through 3mm plywood & acrylic.

As a result it's a most likely the lens, which has some visual occlusion.

Closing in preference for #106