High-Performance Universal Shapeoko Laser | Upgrade Kit with PLH3D-6W-XF+ and LaserDock
High-Performance All-Inclusive PLH3D-6W-XF+ Shapeoko Laser Upgrade Kit that allows you to add precision laser cutting and laser engraving functionalities to any Shapeoko Series CNC machine. This Shapeoko laser is based on the most powerful laser diode in the world and all vital components are plastic-free to ensure top user safety.
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Select Additional Kit Components
Laser Safety
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Laser Safety Glasses
$70.00 $65.10 |
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Blue Laser Goggles
$99.00 $89.10 |
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Blue Laser Safety Window
$187.00 |
CNC Control Software
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Lightburn CNC Software License
$100.00 |
Spare Units of Kit-Included Accessories
Individual Kit Parts
Technical Data
Product Description
Please note that since 13 December 2022, the kit-included mount has been swapped - from our Shapeoko 1-3 mount (compatible with XT and XF+ laser heads) to our Shapeoko 4+ & Shapeoko Pro mount (compatible with PLH3D-15W, XT, XF+ and LaserDock). You can now order the Shapeoko 1-3 mount in the Additional Kit Components section where the Shapeoko 4+ and Shapeoko Pro laser mount was before. Alternatively, you can add a note to your order (on the bottom of the address tab) "Please ship with Shapeoko 1-3 mount (SKU: 1455) instead of the new mount (SKU: 2823)."
Universal XF+ Shapeoko Laser
Our Universal Shapeoko Laser Upgrade Kit enables you to upgrade your Shapeoko CNC Series machine (Shapeoko, Shapeoko 2, Shapeoko 3, Shapeoko 4, Shapeoko Pro XL and Shapeoko Pro XXL) with high precision laser engraving and laser cutting functionalities. It is a professional laser upgrade kit made with the highest quality components. The mounting and wiring are designed with the focus on the easiness of installation and the quality of user experience.
Advantages of XF+ Shapeoko Laser Upgrade
- Simple user-focused installation on all Shapeoko Series CNC machines. PLH3D-CNC Adapter ensures compatibility with all future releases of Shapeoko Series CNC machines. As a result, you will still be able to use your XF+ shapeoko laser if you get an upgrade to new releases of Shapeoko Series.
- Laser Diode Driver is integrated inside the laser head for flawless performance.
- Compatible with the High-Pressure Air Assist Nozzle, which can increase your laser processing speed by up to 6.5 times compared to the base speed (typically doubling or tripling your laser cutting and engraving speed).
- Compatible with the uSpot Lens Upgrade, which significantly increases the optical power density, the resolution obtained as well as boosts laser engraving and laser cutting speed by up to 2.5 times the base speed (typically allowing you to achieve 40% to 80% higher throughput).
- The kit includes the LaserDock laser docking station, which allows you to quickly attach and detach your XF+ shapeoko laser. The LaserDock ensures that the laser head is always placed back at the exact same spot. Repeated laser attachment and disattachment is not problematic anymore as it doesn’t require working distance calibration reruns.
- The achievable precision allows you to complete projects that are simply not possible with just a spindle. The majority of our laser head users earn money with their laser units.
- No additional cooling is needed, the XF+ shapeoko laser incorporates the strongest fan for its size to provide the best cooling and to remove smoke.
What's the difference between 6 W and 7+ W Shapeoko Laser Units that are available on the market?
Our Shapeoko Laser Heads are based on the highest power laser diodes that are available on the market. Therefore, if you see any cnc laser module that uses a single laser diode with an optical power rated at 7 W or 8+ W, it means its laser diode has been overdriven with additional current to increase the power rating. This, however, has an adverse effect on the unit longevity. From the user's perspective, it is better to use a 6 W shapeoko laser, because you will achieve much higher yield over our 6 W laser head's lifetime. Nevertheless, if you are happy with a shorter laser diode lifespan, we could overdrive the laser diode for your shapeoko laser upgrade to 7 W upon request.
All Vital Elements are Plastic-Free to Ensure User Safety While Using Your Cutting Laser for Shapeoko
Our XF+ Shapeoko Laser, just like the rest of our laser heads and other products, does not contain crucial elements that are made of plastic. Being aware of what any Shapeoko CNC machine operation involves as well as its working conditions, we made a decision not to use any plastic in all crucial parts to ensure proper user safety. This is especially important for shapeoko laser housing and assembly parts. While it might seem that plastic elements are safe for use, they can easily bend or break. If that happens, the Shapeoko CNC user has little to no control over where the scattered or direct laser radiation goes, which constitutes a major safety hazard.
Includes Our Highest Quality Engraving and Cutting Laser Head - PLH3D-6W-XF+
XF+ is a best-selling 6 W laser from PLH3D Series. Featuring a robust high-quality design, it is a professional high-performance engraving and cutting laser head designed for hobbyists and industrial applications alike. This Shapeoko Laser is compatible with every single Shapeoko Series CNC machine, including Shapeoko Pro XL, Shapeoko Pro XXL, Shapeoko 4 Standard, Shapeoko 4 XL and Shapeoko 4 XXL. It is also compatible with all the previous generations of Shapeoko CNC machines such as Shapeoko, Shapeoko 2 Series and Shapeoko 3 Series (Shapeoko 3 Standard, Shapeoko 3 XL and Shapeoko 3 XXL). Even though the kit already includes a power supply unit, the XF+ laser for shapeoko is compatible with a wide range of common PSUs. The XF+ shapeoko laser has the strongest-for-its-size fan to provide the best cooling as well as smoke removal. What is more, the kit is shipped with a lens adjusting tool (lens spanner wrench), which facilitates changing the focus distance in case the shapeoko laser user wishes to do so.
You can also discover further interesting information about the Cutting and Engraving Shapeoko Laser 6W-Series.
Why the PLH3D-CNC Universal Adapter is Beneficial for Controlling Your Shapeoko Lasing Unit?
The fundamental functionality of the PLH3D-CNC Adapter is to “arm” and “disarm” shapeoko laser heads. Arming is understood as turning the laser head power supply on. Once armed, the cutting and engraving laser can then emit the laser processing beam. Conversely, disarming (turning off the laser power supply) brings the shapeoko laser unit to a safe state where emitting the laser beam is utterly impossible.
The adapter also provides the means to swiftly check the shapeoko laser by generating a short laser pulse at maximum power. At the same time, this feature also verifies if you wired your shapeoko laser head correctly.
Built-in safety features prevent unexpected behavior and misuse in case of an emergency. The key switch guards the cutting shapeoko laser against being armed by minors and other unauthorized people. Arming the laser is always done manually by the user (by pressing a button). In addition, special circuitry prevents laser arming in case of any malfunction of the internal electronics.
More importantly, your shapeoko laser module is automatically disarmed in case of emergencies such as:
- Disconnecting or Breaking the Laser Head Wire
- Loss of the Power Grid
- Power Supply Unit Failure
Once disarmed, your shapeoko laser module stays in a safe state and rearming demands the user to press the mode button.
Key PLH3D-CNC Adapter Features:
- One-Second Laser Pulse Test
- Universal Compatibility With All PLH3D Series Laser Heads in Case You Would Like to Get an Upgrade to New Laser Head Releases, our Multi-Laser-Diodes Lasers or Specialized Laser Heads.
- Soft Start
- Built-in Smart Microcontroller
- Indication LEDs - Power, Armed, Laser On
- Two Programmable Enable Inputs
- Two External Safety Terminals (For Instance: Safety Key, E-Stop)
- Automatic Disarm After Power-Off
- Keylock for Preventing Unauthorized People From Usage
- Quality Machined Aluminum Enclosure
- Simple One-Button System (For Arming, Pulse Testing and Adapter Program Setting)
Caution:
- Bear in mind that your Shapeoko CNC PLH3D-6W-XF+ laser is not a toy.
- Laser radiation is dangerous even when scattered or reflected from any type of surface.
- Always use proper protection laser filter on your CNC machine designed for the 430 - 480 nm wavelength band to avoid reflected radiation.
- Never point laser head at animals or other people.
- Do not touch the laser beam, it can cause burns or other injuries.
- Do not glare at the beam or the beam spot while the material is being cut.
- Laser radiation - Avoid eye or skin exposure to scattered or direct radiation.
- Class 4 laser product when properly powered.
Example Applications
Birtch Plywood | ||||
Thickness | Feed Rate | Step | ||
3mm (0.118") | 5mm/s (11.8 IPM) | 0.6mm (0.023") | ||
6mm (0.236") | 5mm/s (11.8 IPM) | 0.5mm (0.019") |
Woodworking - Cutting and Engraving Wood
Blue laser engraving can produce a detailed pattern with round edges as well as darken the color of the wood. Laser engraving can be used to engrave a logo or a photo, which can’t be done with milling bits. With PLH3D-6W, you can laser engrave wood and wood-based materials, including cork, chipboard, particleboard, alder, cherry, maple, MDF, basswood, balsa, veneers, medium-density-fiberboard and high-density-fiberboard.
Material | Operation | Feed Rate |
Anodized Aluminum | Marking | 50mm/s (118 IPM) |
Painted Steel | Marking | 50mm/s (118 IPM) |
Engraving Anodized Aluminum and Painted Metals
Blue laser engraving can produce a detailed pattern with round edges as well as darken the color of the wood. Laser engraving can be used to engrave a logo or a photo, which can’t be done with milling bits. With PLH3D-6W, you can laser engrave wood and wood-based materials, including cork, chipboard, particleboard, alder, cherry, maple, MDF, basswood, balsa, veneers, medium-density-fiberboard and high-density-fiberboard.
Material | Thickness | Feed Rate |
Polyester | 0.4mm (0.015") | 40mm/s (94IPM) |
Jeans | 0.5mm (0.019") | 8mm/s (19IPM) |
Leather | 1.5mm (0.059") | 30 mm/s (70IPM) |
Rubber | 0.5mm (0.019") | 15mm/s (35IPM) |
Cutting Textiles and Thin Synthetic Materials
The high absorption of blue laser light for numerous materials enables fast cutting without damaging protection layers used in textile cutting. Blue laser cutting and engraving are suitable for diverse types of textiles including Cordura™, Alcantara, felt, 1080 denier nylon, jeans, short-staple fiber cotton, wool, tartan, fleece, white polyester, softshell, silk, lace and linen. High power density enables laser cutting textiles with carbon-reinforced yarn and nylon-reinforced yarn as well as white textiles. Many robust materials used in the production of tents, kites, and bags can be cut at 60 mm/s.
Other PLH3D-6W-XF+ Applications Gallery
Product Features
Powered by Blue Laser Diodes
Unlike infrared light, blue light is more easily absorbed by numerous industrial materials. This directly translates to several advantages including reduced power consumption and more compact heat sinking.
Integrated Control Electronics
In many laser heads that have the diode connected to the diode’s driver via a long cable and the coupling is done with connectors. Long wires are characterized by substantial inductive effects. This results in delays of the diode’s response in relation to the diode’s driver and as extension it also results in blurred lines. Connectors are more prone to disconnections than coupling done via direct soldering. Disconnecting during laser processing can damage the laser head.
Long Lifetime
Opt Lasers laser heads are industry-level grade CNC machine tools. Mechanical parts are made from machined aluminium. Our products are designed with cooling optimization in mind. Investing in the highest quality equipment ensures the best performance and price.
Lightweight Design Mounts to Nearly any CNC Machine
Featuring a lightweight, Aluminum body that makes the laser weight less than 370 g. As a typical CNC spindle weighs approximately 1.8 kg, CNC machines can operate it effortlessly.
Simple Integration
Can be set on nearly any CNC machine since it accepts both analog and PWM CNC signals.
Instant-On Power
No warm-up time
Accessories
LaserDock (Included in the Kits) – Speeds up your work and keeps your laser clean
An effective solution for both large and small CNC machines and 3D printers, this magnetic docking station allows the PLH3D-XT Series laser for engraving to be quickly attached or removed. This facilitates quick access for CNC milling or 3D printing. By protecting the laser head from plastic or wood dust from your printer or CNC mill, it can extend the lifetime of the engraving laser and reduce maintenance. It also allows you to take advantage of the entire working area of your 3D printer or CNC machine.
PLH3D-CNC Adapter (Included in the Kits) - Easy connection to any CNC machine
Many types of CNC machines and 3D printers with different control voltage standards and levels available on the market may be used to control the PLH3D head. The PLH3D-CNC Adapter converts all these signals to the standard compatible with the PLH3D head. The PLH3D-CNC Adapter contains widely used industry-standard screw connectors. A dedicated desktop low-noise power supply unit assures compatibility and reliability as well as eliminates problems caused by using third-party power supplies. The general status (power, armed, laser working) may be checked at a glance by watching three LEDs.
Laser Safety Glasses (Included in the Kits) - Ensure the highest quality of protection
These laser glasses can help reduce the probability of light entering the eye from the diffusely reflected laser light. It is important to note that while these laser glasses may be helpful at adding an additional layer of safety for diffusely scattered light, the user should not depend on them to protect against the beam entering the eye, either directly or indirectly. It is necessary to take additional precautions when working with lasers, receive proper training on how to do so and not depend on equipment as an alternative to safe practices.
Other accessories (Included in the Kits) - To make your Opt Lasers Kit plug & play
With these accessories, it is a plug & play kit. Height Reference - helps you set your working distance, power adapter with AC adapter to allow you to plug into all outlets (US, AU and Europe), wiring and screw set to connect everything together and mount to connect the machine.
Blue Laser Safety Window (Compatible with all Blue Lasers) - Install as you need
These laser windows can help reduce the probability of light entering the user’s eye from a diffusely backscattered laser light. This product is rated at OD 6+ over the range of 190 to 540 nm, blocking deep ultraviolet to green including violet and blue light.
High-Pressure Air Assist Nozzle (Compatible with XT-50 & XT-10 and XF+) - Speeds up laser engraving and cutting up to 6 times
Being compatible with the XT and XF+ Laser Head, the High-Pressure Air Nozzle is a priceless asset for laser cutting and engraving. Not only does it speed up cutting and engraving with laser by up to 6.5 times, but it also substantially improves the attained quality of the processed material. With the High-Pressure Air Nozzle your yield will have noticeably enhanced quality with uniform and well-defined features. Our High-Pressure Air Nozzle will also protect your optics from smoke and dust particles, extending the intervals between subsequent lens cleaning routines, and boost user safety.
Product Specifications
PLH3D-6W-Series | |
---|---|
Laser Diode Optical Power | 6W |
Dimensions of Laser Head (L x W x H) | 40 x 55 x 78(105) mm (1.6 x 1.7 x 3.1(5.9) in.) |
Weight of Laser Head, Typ. | 220g (7.76 oz.) |
Flow Rate of Fan | 43 m3/h (25 CFM) |
Fan Noise | 58 dBA |
Mounting Hole Pattern | 4 holes, 24 x 15 mm (0.94 x 0.59 in.) |
Mounting Hole Type | M3 x 0.5 x 4.5 mm |
Max. Ambient Temperature | 45°C (113°F) |
Modulations Inputs | 2 |
Modulation Input 1 | Analog/TTL/PWM, 0 – 5 V |
Modulation Input 21 | TTL/PWM 0 – 24 V |
Recommended PWM Base Frequency | 5 – 10 kHz |
Max. Modulation Bandwidth | 30 kHz |
Input Impedance of 1 and 2 | >1 k-Ω |
Power Supply Unit Voltage | 12 – 24 V |
12 V PSU Min. Current | 2.5 A |
24 V PSU Min. Current | 1.25 A |
Max. Power Consumption | 30 W |
- "Laser Off" state is <2 V. "Laser On" state is 3 – 24 V.
Material Testing Gallery
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Reviews
Impressive Upgrade!
I upgraded my Shapeoko CNC machine with the Universal XF+ Shapeoko Laser, and it has transformed my projects! Highly recommended.
Good
This product works perfectly without any problems.
YES!
The Laser Kit has become an indispensable tool in my workshop. Its precision and reliability are impressive, allowing me to accomplish intricate laser cutting and engraving tasks with ease.
Incredible laser!
Been wanting to adapt a laser to our cnc and when stumble upon this one we felt that it would be the perfect fit and boy were we ever right. Simple manual to follow a quick assembly onto our shapeoko and it was off firing within minutes of being installed. Impressed with its consistent performance and a burn that leaves a mark on beautiful wood projects. Magnetic laser dock is a huge factor in buying as well so easy to snap on and off converting from laser work and cnc work. Highly recommend this laser and customer services is also amazing when coming to tracking and info on product.
Highly recommended
Being a first time buyer of a laser this one grabbed my attention and boy did it not disappoint. Digital users Manuel made super easy to adapt the laser to my shapeoko cnc and the magnetic laser doc is so convenient to pull off and attach laser diode so it can be stored aside when using the cnc and nit the laser. As for the 6W laser itself…. The burn is real it’s clean and leaves a great impression when engraving solid woods like we have been. Continuous use over the day with some burns lasting 8-14 minutes each laser performed flawlessly. Also customer service from OPT lasers is second to none with quick administration responses and detailed tracking info when in transit. Highly recommended for the laser enthusiasts and novices.
best of the best
Great customer service, I had a lot of questions and they patiently answered all of them and with High Pressure Nozzle I have a million ideas in my head and can easily realize them.