OMTech 40W CO2 Settings for Cardboard

Cutting Settings

How to Set Up Cardboard on the OMTech 40W CO2

1. 1Secure your cardboard flat on the work bed using clamps, magnets, or a honeycomb pin set to prevent movement during the job.
2. 2Set your focus distance accurately — use the auto-focus probe if your machine has one, or measure manually with the focus gauge.
3. 3Ensure your water cooling system is running and the coolant temperature is between 15–25°C before starting the laser.
4. 4Keep a fire extinguisher or spray bottle nearby. Cardboard is flammable — never leave the machine unattended while cutting this material.
5. 5Enable air assist if available. A steady stream of air at the cut point removes debris, reduces charring, and helps prevent flare-ups.
6. 6Enter the speed, power, and pass count from the settings table above into LightBurn. Use the “Cut” or “Engrave” layer settings panel.
7. 7Run a small test cut or engrave on a scrap piece of cardboard before committing to your final project piece. Adjust power up or down by 5–10% based on results.

What to Expect When Lasering Cardboard

Cardboard cuts quickly and cleanly at low power settings. Expect slight browning on the cut edges. Be vigilant about fire risk — cardboard can ignite easily if power is too high or the laser moves too slowly. Engraving on cardboard creates a subtle darkened impression that works well for packaging prototypes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ✗Running at full power on the first attempt — always start with a test piece at the recommended settings and adjust incrementally. Going straight to maximum power risks burning through the material or causing fire.
• ✗Forgetting to check the water cooling system before starting. CO2 laser tubes can overheat and suffer permanent damage if the coolant is not flowing or is above 25°C.
• ✗Leaving the machine unattended while cutting — cardboard is highly flammable and can ignite suddenly, especially at slower speeds or higher power settings.
• ✗Stacking multiple layers of cardboard to cut at once — this dramatically increases fire risk and produces uneven results.

Tips for Cardboard on Laser Machines

• ✓High speed and low power prevent scorching and flare-ups.
• ✓Single-wall corrugated is easiest -- double-wall may need multiple passes.
• ✓Air assist is critical to blow away flames and smoke.
• ✓Hold cardboard flat with magnets or weights to prevent warping during cutting.
• ✓Great for rapid prototyping before committing to wood or acrylic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Materials for OMTech 40W CO2

Cardboard Settings for Other Machines