Troubleshoot Incomplete or Failed Cuts for xTool P3
Updated Jan 28,2026
Updated Jan 28,2026

Issue description

This issue occurs when:

  • xTool materials cannot be cut through using the recommended parameters, or
  • Materials that were previously cut through successfully with the same parameters can no longer be cut through.

Refer to the following for troubleshooting.

Potential causes

  1. Incorrect processing parameters
  2. The origin of measurement is covered
  3. The slat slots are covered
  4. Misaligned optical path
  5. Dirty laser mirrors
  6. Contaminated protective lens
  7. Dirty focus lens
  8. Incorrectly installed focus lens (upside down)
  9. Improper focus distance
  10. Laser tube power degradation

Troubleshooting procedures

1. Check processing parameters

Parameter Verification:

  • xTool materials: Verify that processing parameters match the current material type.
  • Non-xTool materials: Use the Material Test Array function to determine optimal parameters.
  • If parameters are appropriate, proceed to the next step.

If the material fails to cut through only when using the conveyor feeder mode, increase the power appropriately or reduce the cutting speed. This occurs because the motor transmission rate in the conveyor feeder mode differs from that in the lift platform mode.

2. Check the position of the materials

The origin and the right slat slots (as shown) are the calibration points for distance measurement. Do not cover them with the materials, as this may cause defocusing.

3. Check the laser mirrors

⚠️ Safety First: Power off your laser device before performing the inspection in this step.

Check each of the three laser mirrors for oxidation, dirt, or other abnormal conditions.

To uninstall or clean the laser mirrors, see the tutorial.

First-level Laser Mirror

Second-level Laser Mirror

Third-level Laser Mirror

  • If the mirrors are dirty, please follow the tutorial and clean them.
  • If the mirrors are oxidized severely, please replace them with new ones.

4. Check the protective lens

Rotate the protective lens counterclockwise to remove it, then inspect for abnormalities such as oxidation or contamination.

To uninstall or clean the laser mirrors, see the tutorial.
  • If the lens is contaminated, follow the tutorial to clean it.
  • If the lens is oxidized or damaged, replace it in a timely manner.

5. Check the focus lens

(1) Remove the magnetic front cover.

image.png

(2) Use a Philips screwdriver to remove the screws on the focus lens holder.

(3) Take out the focus lens holder. Check whether the focus lens is damaged or dirty.

To uninstall or clean the laser mirrors, see the tutorial.

  • If the lens is contaminated, follow the tutorial to clean it.
  • If the lens is broken or oxidized severely, replace it in a timely manner.

6. Check the focus lens installation orientation

Critical Check: Ensure the focus lens is installed with the convex side facing up.

Method 1: Visual Inspection

  1. Remove the focus lens from its holder.
  2. Observe the lens shape.
  3. Correct installation: Convex (curved outward) side faces up.

Method 2: Light Reflection Test

  1. Place the focus lens holder vertically under the left side light panel of the machine.
  2. Observe the reflected light.
  3. Correct orientation: The surface that produces a narrower reflected light beam is the convex side and should face up.

7. Check the optical path

Go to ··· > Device settings > Device settings > Optical path setup > Start to calibrate the optical path. Test whether the optical path is misaligned.

Cutting abnormalities caused by misaligned optical paths often result in significant variations in cutting performance in different processing areas, with some areas even failing to emit light. You may also attempt cutting tests in different areas. If you need to calibrate the optical path, see the tutorial.
  • If the optical path is misaligned, please refer to the guide and software prompts to complete the calibration.
  • If the optical path is aligned, exit the settings and check for other issues.

8. Check the model of the focus lens (if any)

Check the focus lens model matches the lens holder (xTool P3 comes standard with M-type focus lens).

If you have multiple focus lenses, you can distinguish their models by the markings on the packaging. If packaging markings are unavailable, observe the lens's convexity—the shorter the focal length, the more convex it is, that is, the height of the bulge: S>M>L.

9. Laser tube power degradation

For most CO₂ laser engraving and cutting systems, laser tube power degradation can occur under two main conditions:

Normal Power Degradation (Irreversible)

Description:

Over time, the laser tube’s output power gradually decreases due to normal wear. This decline is permanent and cannot be reversed.

Signs of Power Degradation:

  • Previously successful cuts now require higher power.
  • Cutting performance gradually decreases over time.
  • Longer cutting times are needed for the same results.

Compensation Methods:

  1. Increase laser power for your current project.
  2. Decrease cutting speed to allow more energy per area.
  3. Multiple passes may be necessary for thick materials.

Temperature‑Related Power Loss (Reversible)

Description:

When the device temperature becomes too high, the laser output power may drop temporarily. This effect is reversible once the system cools.

💡 Tip: Antifreeze is added to the water tank to prevent freezing when ambient temperatures fall below 0 °C, which would otherwise block water circulation. Its primary function, however, is still to cool the laser tube.
  • If your local temperature never drops below 0 °C, simply add 1,200 ml of purified water to the tank.
  • If temperatures may drop below 0 °C, mix antifreeze and purified water in the recommended ratio.
👉 Always follow the user manual for detailed mixing and filling instructions.

Temperature Management:

  • More common during extended continuous processing.
  • Solution: Stop processing and allow the machine to cool down.
  • Test cutting performance after the cooling period.

10. Check the airflow of the air pump

Go to the link to check and troubleshoot the airflow issues during cutting.

11. Check the beam combiner mirror

Go to the link and check whether the beam combiner mirror works properly.

  • If the mirror is clean, reinstall it and recalibrate the optical path.
  • If there is some dust or dirt on the surface, clean the beam combiner mirror following this tutorial.
  • If the mirror is oxidized severely or cracked, get a new beam combiner mirror for replacement.

Still experiencing issues?

Should the issue persist after completing the preceding steps, submit a ticket via the "Submit a Ticket" button in the "Help Ticket" section below. The standard response time for xTool Customer Service is one business day.

For a prompt resolution, please include the following details:

  • Issue description: A detailed explanation of the observed problem.
  • Video evidence: Attach a video demonstrating the issue, where applicable.
  • Device information: Follow the steps to find the SN and export the work log.

image.png

  • Troubleshooting performed: Any troubleshooting steps you have already attempted, along with their results.


This information is crucial for xTool technical support engineers to provide timely assistance.




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