[xhorton]

i have read and searched around here, thought i would ask directly. i want to be able to cut jigsaw puzzles out of 3mm wood or plastic and i need precision with accurately repeatable results. i cant trust a die cut to be the same after its used up and replaced with another. because of this i plain to use a 36" plotter to print my images then glue/transfer them to my 3mm wood or plastic. 36" might be to big so im not holding to that if needed i can adjust. i feel a laser cnc cutter will provide the results i need but over the past few weeks i have not narrowed it down to one machine or even type. im not engraving or using 4axis and i will only ever cut the 3mm wood or plastic with it. but need to produce them to a good size. was hoping 36x36 or 36x24 so i can adjust if needed.

need help to understand the type of laser i would need
also a large table type cnc machine? type? style? name? brand?

thanks for any help

[Exsecratio]

One big problem with cutting jigsaws (quality ones) is Kerf, the parts will end up lose fitting unless you cut them all individually.

best wishes

Dave

[Bec Weir]

I do not think the kerf would be THAT big of an issue.

Pm me if you'd like to do a test cut.

[RossMosh]

I think you're going to have to test on each machine. With the western machines, you can contact your local sales rep and they'll be able to do a demo for you. The Chinese machines will be a bit more difficult. Personally, I'd try to find someone local to you with a Chinese machine and ask if you can come down and run a sample on their machine.

[fishface]

I've cut an interlocking candle holder out of 3mm ply using a jigsaw type interlock (picture here). There is a little movement in the two pieces, but I would expect some movement in a wooden jigsaw; more than a cardboard one. You would presumably be cutting larger pieces than a normal cardboard jigsaw?

As for power; my cheap 40W CO2 laser zips through 3mm Birch plywood on about 30% power or 3mm acrylic at full power.

[Gweikelasers]

Edge burning marks will be a problem.

[manfre]

Edge burning marks will be a problem.

To reduce burning, he could put the puzzle picture down and tape the back (facing up). He'll need a knife edge table and decent air flow to prevent soot on the picture, but it should work as long as he doesn't severely overpower the cut.