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1.3 Safety Guidelines

Operating a laser engraver involves certain risks. The YUMI L Series (Laser) is designed with safety in mind, but safe operation still depends on following proper guidelines.

Laser Attention!!!

1. General Safety Rules

  • Always wear appropriate laser safety glasses for the wavelength of your module (e.g. 445 nm with an optical density O.D. ≥ 4).
  • Never look directly into the laser beam.
  • Never leave the laser unattended while it is operating.
  • Keep the work area clean, dry, and free of flammable materials.
  • Operate the laser in a well-ventilated environment.
  • Keep children and pets away from the machine when in use.
  • Do not override or bypass any built-in safety mechanisms.
  • Use warning signs to indicate when the laser is in operation.
  • Ensure the operating room has controlled access (solid doors, no direct view of the laser beam).
  • Avoid aiming the laser beam at reflective surfaces.

2. Material Restrictions

Certain materials can produce toxic fumes or dangerous reactions when cut or engraved. Do not process the following:

  • PVC (polyvinyl chloride) – releases corrosive chlorine gas that damages optics and voids warranty.
  • Vinyl – similar hazards as PVC.
  • ABS – melts and produces toxic fumes.
  • Fiberglass – emits hazardous fumes due to epoxy resin.
  • Beryllium-containing alloys – highly toxic.
  • Polycarbonate (Lexan) – easily ignites and cuts poorly.
  • HDPE – melts and ignites easily.
  • Polystyrene foam – melts and burns.
  • Polypropylene – melts and burns, producing hard droplets.
  • Coated carbon fiber – emits noxious fumes.
  • Any unknown material without verifying its compatibility with laser use (consult Safety Data Sheet).

3. Ventilation Requirements

  • Use the laser in a well-ventilated room or with an active fume extraction system.
  • Recommended: an enclosure with exhaust fan vented outdoors.
  • If no direct exhaust, use an air purifier with a carbon filter.
  • Avoid inhaling fumes generated during engraving or cutting.

4. Fire Prevention

  • Keep a CO₂ or dry powder fire extinguisher nearby at all times.
  • Alternatively, keep a “fire extinguisher ball” near the machine for automatic flame suppression.
  • Do not leave the laser unattended during operation.
  • Clean the cutting bed regularly from debris and flammable materials.
  • Do not remove materials until fully cooled.
  • Avoid using highly flammable or explosive materials.
  • Prevent cables (USB, 24V power) from touching the laser beam.

5. Electrical Safety

  • Use only the original power adapter supplied with the YUMI Laser.
  • Avoid running cables across walkways or sharp edges.
  • Disconnect power before cleaning, moving, or performing maintenance.