For a long time I have been meaning to buy a laser cutter to add to my tool set. The main reason for this, is to save time. For a while now I have been using my CNC mill to cut plastic parts (mostly 2D), but I am getting tried of the setup time and milling time (broken bits when cutting gears, the work moves while cutting, etc.). I even built an aluminium bed to accept 6"x6" plastics to simplify the mounting process, but it still takes time. So I am hopping that a laser cutter will be more efficient at there processes.
After researching allot on the internet I found that there are really only a few models coming from China and a few from the us. I decided to by from China since the price it extremely low. However, I was a bit concerned after reading allot of horror stories on the import process and machines coming in broken. I feel like I can fix anything, so the broken machines did not deter me, and I thought it will be nice to learn what it takes to import from china.
I started contacting several companies to find prices and to see if it will meet my requirements. Originally I was thinking of a 40W laser CO2 laser as I was mainly wanting to cut 1/4" acrylic, but found out that I will need at least 60W to do this in an efficient manner. Talked to Mandy from jcut (JCUT Cnc Router,Cutting Plotter,Laser Cutting Machine,Laser Engraving Machine [email protected]) she was very helpful, and answered all my questions right away. I determined that the JCUT-3040 with the 60W laser will be perfect for me. I also wanted the honeycomb for cutting, the auto focus, the raise down platform, as well as the red dot pointer. She was able to get me a very competitive deal. So I ordered the laser. The laser arrived about a month latter.
Overall I am very satisfied with the laser. I am also very satisfied with Mandy at JCut. She was on top of everything and quickly replied to all my questions, concerns and needs. I feel very comfortable with their company. The laser cutter itself looks very well made. It was very easy to setup and worked right out of the box (see Importing a Laser Cutter). I had a great experience. My only stress came from the US brokers who waited until the last minute to check and file everything. So for a stress free import you will need to get all the ISF info beforehand and the FDA accession number. As for costs, it looks like the import fees cost me about $500. This included the duties, which the broker paid directly. This is almost the same as if I had paid about $400+ duties and got it to my door (but I am not sure if the FDA forms and the ISF still needs to be filed or not). Overall the price of the laser was much better then any of the USA companies selling the same Chinese laser. I am extremely satisfied with the laser. I have been using it for a month now, and it works flawlessly. I have saved so much time in the machining process (as opposed to the mill), and I can finally concentrate on on the design then the machining process, cleanup, etc. Projects that have been taking me days, are now taking several minutes. Its very easy to maintain (just wipe the mirrors every once in a while, and insure that water is flowing (takes about a minute). I would highly recommend buying a laser cutter, and buying it from Mandy at JCut.
I kept a detailed log of the import process on my website, as well as the setup procedures.
Importing a Laser Cutter
Mandy's contact info (if you contact her, she will probably give you a better deal)
Msn: [email protected] and [email protected]
skype: wdzhangying
ebay ID: chinakzj
Phone:0086-531-82374653
Lior.