If you’re using a CO₂ laser cutter or engraver – whether in a school, workshop, studio, there’s one piece of equipment you shouldn’t overlook, and this is an extraction and filtration system.
It might not seem like the most exciting part of your setup but our partnership with Purex International is.
When you cut or engrave materials like wood, acrylic, leather, or PVC Free plastics, the materials are burning/vaporising. That creates toxic fumes (like formaldehyde or VOCs) and fine airborne particles. Without proper extraction, all those fumes end up in your workspace and getting breathed in.
A good purifier system protects everyone nearby. Breathing in laser-generated fumes and particles can cause health problems. An extractor with HEPA and activated carbon filters keeps your air clean and your team safe.
In the UK, COSHH regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) apply to fumes and particles from laser processing. If you’re running a laser cutter commercially or in an education setting, you’re required by law to control those emissions.
Not only is there a health risk when not using an extraction system, but a fire risk too. Those fumes and dust can be flammable, especially when cutting wood or card. Good airflow and proper extraction help prevent smoke build-up, cools down the machine, and lowers the risk of flare-ups.
Smoke and dust don’t just float around, they stick to everything. That includes your laser lenses and mirrors, which can reduce your cutting power and accuracy.
With good extraction:
- Your optics stay cleaner
- Your machine runs smoother
- Your cutting edges look sharper
For more information on the WidLaser machines or extraction systems, contact [email protected] or call 01978 666700.
Here is a link to the product pages on our website: Laser Cutting & Engraving System – Graphtec GB
