Troubleshooting Material Yellowing or Blackening During Laser Cutting
Updated Nov 12,2025
Updated Nov 12,2025

Issue description

During laser cutting, the material can be cut through, but it is severely yellowed and blackened.

Possible causes

  1. Incorrect processing parameters
  2. The air nozzle is not installed.
  3. Incorrect air pump power settings
  4. The air pipeline is leaking gases.
  5. The air pump is faulty.

Troubleshooting procedures

1. Troubleshooting for the software and device

1. Check the software and firmware

Update to the latest software and firmware.

2. Check the processing parameters

  • For official materials, check whether the material matches the recommended parameters. If not, adjust the parameters.

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3. Check the installation of the air nozzle

Installing an air nozzle is good for smoke discharge during laser processing. If the air nozzle is not installed, please install one.

If a project involves both laser engraving and laser cutting, you can install the air nozzle according to your specific needs. Or, perform laser engraving and laser cutting separately.

4. Check the power of the air pump

Go to Device settings.

Check whether the power of the Cut mode under Airflow of the air pump is 100% (default). If not, please adjust to 100%, and process with the Cut mode.

The power setting corresponds to the processing mode. 100% power is only effective in Cut mode.

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5. Check the airflow of the air nozzle

Read the article (Troubleshoot the Airflow of the Air Pump is Low for xTool P3) to check the airflow of the air nozzle and troubleshoot the issues.

2. Tips for reducing yellowing

1. Set the power of turning at the corner

Set Fixed value for the cutting power. It is recommended to decrease the value based on the default (It can optimize the cutting result during turning at the corner).

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2. Wipe the material after laser cutting

Wipe the position that is yellowing with a tissue. It can reduce yellowing.

3. Apply the protective tape

Apply a layer of masking tape on the material to be cut. When the processing is completed, remove the tape.

Or purchase the material with a protective film applied, and remove the film after processing.

4. Use a powerful smoke exhaust device

It is recommended to use xTool SafetyPro™ AP2 Max. A powerful smoke exhaust device helps smoke discharge quickly, reducing material yellowing caused by smoke accumulation.

5. Adjust the processing parameters

To ensure material cutting through, you can set a higher speed and lower power during processing to avoid multiple cuts, which can reduce yellowing to some extent.

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.

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  • 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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