Candle is an easy to build diode laser cutter/engraver featuring a diode laser with about 5-15W of power, depending upon the laser module you choose. Candle is sutible for engraving on a variety of materials and cutting thin opaque materials.
The Candle laser is currently a work in progress (WIP) so stay tuned for updates.
Never, ever work around a powered laser cutter without wearing appropriate laser safety glasses. These glasses are designed to block the wavelengths of light used by the laser so that the beam does not enter your eyes.
Most of the parts necessary to build the Candle laser can be purchased from a variety of sources. The affiliate links below help support the project but please feel free to shop around at your prefered vendors. For many parts, you can often find cheaper prices on sites like eBay if you are willing to wait a bit longer for shipping.
| Part | Quantity | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 2M Motor Connecting Cables (pack of 4) | 1 (pack of 4) | https://amzn.to/3S6iYUE |
| T-Nuts, 240 Pieces, 2020, M3 M4 M5 | 1 (contains 240 parts) | https://amzn.to/3fg1zdl |
| Pan Head Machine Screws, M5-0.8x100mm | 1 (pack of 4) | https://amzn.to/3BHPvJw |
| GT2 Pulleys, 20 Teeth, 5mm bore | 1 (pack of 5) | https://amzn.to/3LAESgj |
| 2040 Aluminum Extrusion, 1000mm V Slot | 1 (pack of 5) | https://amzn.to/3feTwgU |
| GT2 Timing Belt, 5M, 6mm width | 1 | https://amzn.to/3DOMTMH |
| Printer rollers, V Slot gantry wheel, 625zz | 1 (pack of 13) | https://amzn.to/3UBi4Bd |
| NEMA 17 Stepper Motor, Bipolar, 1.5A, 59.5oz.in | 1 (pack of 5) | https://amzn.to/3dzPcbI |
| Laser Module,10W Optical Power, Fixed-Focus | 1 | https://amzn.to/3SwqPe1 |
| T-Slot inside corner connector for 2020 extrusion | 1 (pack of 20) | https://amzn.to/3BDLWEm |
| Longrunner mechanical endstop | 1 (pack of 6) | https://amzn.to/3SrQCUx |
| Socket Head Screw, M5, 35 mm Long | 2 (packs of 25) | https://www.mcmaster.com/91292A193/ |
| Socket Head Screw, M3, 8 mm Long | 1 (pack of 100) | https://www.mcmaster.com/91292A112/ |
| Socket Head Screw, M5, 10 mm Long | 1 (pack of 100) | https://www.mcmaster.com/91292A124/ |
| Hex Nut, M5 | 1 (pack of 100) | https://www.mcmaster.com/91828A241/ |