Cutting Test with LaserGRBL for Longer Ray5 & B1

Different materials require different laser power, engraving speed, and cutting passes to achieve clean cutting results. Even materials of the same type may vary in density or composition, which can affect cutting performance.

The LaserGRBL Cutting Test helps users quickly find suitable cutting parameters before starting a project. By testing different combinations of power, speed, and passes, you can reduce material waste and improve cutting quality.

This guide explains how to use the Cutting Test feature in LaserGRBL with the LONGER Ray5 and LONGER B1 laser engravers.

Why Run a Cutting Test?

Laser parameter tables provide recommended settings for common materials. For example, basswood may be recommended at 100% power and 350 mm/min on the LONGER Ray5 10W.

However, actual cutting results may vary because:

Different material batches may have different densities.
Moisture content and surface finish can affect cutting performance.
The same settings may not produce identical results on every material.

Running a cutting test allows you to fine-tune the parameters for your specific material, helping achieve cleaner cuts and more consistent results.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using LaserGRBL Cutting Test

1️⃣ Open the Cutting Test Tool

In LaserGRBL, go to: Generate → Cutting Test

This opens the cutting test setup screen.

2️⃣ Set Laser Power (S Value)

LaserGRBL uses S-10 = 1% power and S-1000 = 100% power
Set your starting power based on the material table (e.g., Basswood = 100% → S-1000)

3️⃣ Set Number of Passes

You can test 1–4 passes to determine how many layers are needed for a clean cut

4️⃣ Set Speed Range

Example for Basswood: recommended 350 mm/min
Test a range: 100–500 mm/min to find the optimal cutting speed

5️⃣ Edit Text Labels for Test

Add labels to mark different parameter settings
Helps track which speed/power combinations produce the best results

6️⃣ Create the Test File

Click “Create!” to generate a sample cutting test

7️⃣ Export GCode & Run Test

Click File → Save (Advanced Option) to export G-code
Copy to microSD card
Run the Cutting Test on Longer Ray5 or B1

Tip: You can also run the Cutting Test via USB before exporting GCode for faster adjustments.

Tips for Better Cutting Results

Test new materials before starting a full project.
Use the recommended parameters as a starting point, then adjust based on actual results.
Record successful settings for future projects using the same material.
Increase the number of passes instead of increasing power excessively when deeper cuts are required.

Conclusion

The LaserGRBL Cutting Test is an effective way to optimize cutting parameters for the LONGER Ray5 and LONGER B1 laser engravers.

By testing different combinations of laser power, cutting speed, and pass count, you can find the settings that best match your material. Performing a quick cutting test before production helps improve cutting quality, reduce material waste, and achieve more consistent results across different projects.

FAQ

1. Why should I run a cutting test before a project?

Materials of the same type can vary, so testing helps achieve cleaner cuts and reduces material waste.

2. Which parameters can I adjust in the Cutting Test?

You can adjust laser power, cutting speed, and the number of passes.

3. Can I run the Cutting Test through USB?

Yes. The test can be run directly through a USB connection or exported as a G-code file for offline operation.