Troubleshoot Decreased Cutting & Engraving Performance in Laser Modules for D Series
Updated Dec 3,2024
Updated Dec 3,2024
This article applies to: D1 and D1 Pro with all laser modules.
Issue description
If you notice a reduction in the processing power of your laser module, which prevents cutting through materials that were previously processed flawlessly under the same parameters, or if the engraved results show inconsistencies in color between two processing tasks with identical parameter settings (with later engravings appearing lighter), please refer to this troubleshooting guide.
Possible causes
Dirty laser module protective lens
Burnt laser module protective lens
Burnt inner lens
Air nozzle blockage causing laser beam reflection and damaging the lens
Abnormal laser module focal length
Outdated machine firmware
Main control board/adapter voltage exception
Troubleshooting
#1 Clean the protective lens
Heavy laser processing generates a significant amount of smoke. This naturally leads to dirt build-up on the protective lens.
Regular Cleaning: Use the xTool maintenance kit or a lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the lens.
Frequent Maintenance: If the machine is used for extended periods, clean the lens and air nozzle every hour to maintain optimal performance.
Prevention Tip: To minimize lens contamination, consider using an Air Assis Set or Air-Compress Assist during operation.
For detailed cleaning instructions, refer to the video tutorial below.
If there are burn marks on the protection lens that cannot be wiped off, replace the protection lens with a new one. For a new lens, click on this link: Laser Lens for xTool D1. Please ensure you switch to the site corresponding to your country or region before placing an order.
If this does not resolve the issue, proceed to the next step.
#2 Check the inner lens
Unscrew the protective lens to inspect the inner lens for burn marks or damage.
If the inner lens is burned or broken, please replace the laser module to resolve the issue, as this is a highly integrated component (except for 40W modules where inner lenses are replaceable).
If the issue remains unresolved, continue to the next step.
#3 Clean the air nozzle
For D series laser engravers operating without an Air Assist Set or Air-Compress Assist, dust may accumulate in the air nozzle, causing the laser beam to reflect and damage the lens.
In this regard, it is recommended to clean the air nozzle regularly.
Alternatively, use xTool's stickers or other covers on the nozzle intake to prevent dust buildup.
It is also advisable to install the nozzle connector components (included in your product package) to inhibit dirt build-up if an Air Assist Set or Air-Compress Assist accessory is not in use. For more on the installation procedure, refer to the images below.
If this does not resolve the issue, move to the next step.
#4 Adjust focus lever
An incorrect focal distance, such as positioning the air nozzle too close to the material, can result in suboptimal processing outcomes.
Adjust the focus lever on the side of your laser module to ensure the proper focal distance is set.
For detailed guidance on tweaking the focus lever for optimal performance, please refer to the video tutorial below.
#5 Check your firmware version
If your machine's firmware is not up-to-date, it may cause issues with cutting performance.
If there's a multimeter at hand, follow the instructions below to check the adapter and main control board voltage.
Check adapter output voltage: Disconnect the power cable from the main control board and test the output voltage. The normal voltages for D-series products are as follows:
D1: 12V.
D1 Pro 5W/10W: 24V.
D1 Pro 20W/40W: 25V.
Check main control board input voltage: Reconnect the power adapter to the motherboard and test the input voltage. The normal voltages for D-series products are as follows:
D1: 12V.
D1 Pro 5W/10W: 24V.
D1 Pro 20W/40W: 25V.
Check main control board-to-laser module voltage: While pressing the "Start" button on the main control board, test the voltage. The normal voltages for D-series products are as follows:
D1: 12V.
D1 Pro 5W/10W/20W/40W: 24V.
Contact support
If the above steps do not resolve the issue, contact xTool Customer Service and provide details of the troubleshooting steps you have already performed.