K40 Laser Cutter Air Assist Nozzle with Laser Diode Mounts

thingiverse

This is an Air Assist nozzle designed specifically for use with K40 Laser cutters, equipped with two sturdy mount points for 6mm laser diodes. The diodes are securely fastened onto articulated mounts that attach to the nozzle via a precise M3x10 screw, passing through both the nozzle and the diode mount. To ensure stability during testing, zip-ties are used to hold the laser diodes firmly in place on the mounts. Power is drawn from the LED lighting strip connector, flowing through a reliable 5V power regulator (a 3.3V regulator would be even better) as long as the laser diodes remain operational whenever the LED lighting is turned on. This setup enables users to position a workpiece securely within the clamp on the standard bed of the cutter, allowing for test-firing of the laser and then adjusting the mounts for the laser diodes until both red spots perfectly overlap on the burn mark left by the laser cutter. By doing so, users gain not only a visible indication of where the next cut will be made but also a precise knowledge of when the workpiece reaches the focal point of the laser. The initial calibration process ensures that the two red dots overlap when the surface of the workpiece is at its intended distance from the laser head. The air feed to the nozzle is facilitated through the hole on the side, positioned halfway between the diode mounts and designed to accommodate standard 6mm aquarium air hose fittings with ease.