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Can Genmitsu with a Laser Cut 3mm Plywood?

One of the most common questions we hear from Genmitsu users is:
“Will my Genmitsu CNC with a laser head cut 3mm plywood?”
The answer is: Yes — but with the right setup and expectations.

Let’s break down what you need to make it work effectively and what results you can realistically expect from a diode laser on a Genmitsu platform.

⚙️ Genmitsu + Diode Laser – Capabilities

Most Genmitsu models (like the 3018-PRO and PROVer) are not built for raw cutting power — but with a properly configured 6W or 10W diode laser, you can cut thin plywood like 3mm birch or poplar.

✅ The key lies in laser focus, number of passes, and air assist.

🔍 What Affects Cutting Performance?

🔸 1. Laser Power

  • 6W laser: Yes, it can cut 3mm plywood, usually in 3–6 passes.

  • 10W+ laser: Faster and cleaner cuts, often in 1–2 passes.

The denser or darker the plywood, the harder it will be to cut. Birch works great. MDF-core plywood — less so.

🔸 2. Focus & Speed

  • Focus must be sharp — at the surface or mid-depth of the material.

  • Speed: Start with 200–300 mm/min

  • Power: Use 100%

Start slow and experiment to balance burn marks vs. clean cuts.

🔸 3. Air Assist

This is a game-changer.
Using even a small air pump (10–15 l/min) dramatically improves:

  • Cut quality

  • Edge sharpness

  • Fire risk reduction

Without air assist, expect more burn marks and less depth per pass.

🧪 Real-World Test (Typical)

Laser PowerPassesMaterialResult
6W 5–6 Birch 3mm Clean with air assist
6W 8+ Poplar 3mm Slight charring
10W 2–3 Birch 3mm Very clean
6W 3 MDF-core 3mm Incomplete cut

⚠️ Tips for Success

  • Use light-colored birch plywood for best results.

  • Always enable laser mode in GRBL: $32=1

  • Match LightBurn’s S-value max to GRBL’s $30 (typically 1000)

  • Keep material flat and avoid gaps under the sheet.

🧠 So, Should You Use Genmitsu for 3mm Plywood?

✅ Yes — with the right laser (6W+), air assist, and settings.
Genmitsu machines are slower than belt-driven engravers, but their rigid structure helps maintain accuracy and stability — especially when cutting wood.

🔗 Where to Go Next?

👉 Read more about Genmitsu 3018 CNC compatibility
👉 Explore our Laser Kits for Genmitsu

Need help with air assist setup or picking the right laser for plywood? Contact our team — we’re happy to help.

  Posted by Opt Lasers     Genmitsu views (1189)