Power vs Speed Test with LaserGRBL for Longer Ray5 & B1

Choosing the right laser power and engraving speed is essential for achieving high-quality engraving and cutting results. Different materials absorb and react to laser energy differently, so the same settings may produce different results on different surfaces.

The LONGER Ray5 20W and LONGER B1 laser engravers support flexible parameter adjustments, allowing users to optimize engraving performance for various materials. By using the Power vs Speed Test feature in LaserGRBL, you can quickly find the most suitable settings for your specific project.

This guide explains how to use LaserGRBL’s Power vs Speed Test to adjust laser power, speed, and engraving quality for better results.

Why Power and Speed Settings Matter

During laser engraving, power and speed directly affect how much energy is applied to the material.

• Higher laser power increases energy output.
• Lower engraving speed allows the laser to stay on the material longer.
• Higher speed reduces the heat applied to the surface.

Different materials require different combinations of power and speed to achieve the desired engraving effect.

For example, metal engraving relies on controlled heat interaction with the surface. Adjusting laser power and speed can change oxidation effects and surface appearance, which is important for applications such as metal marking and decorative engraving.

Both LONGER Ray5 and LONGER B1 can perform metal engraving. The LONGER B1, with higher power capability and improved stability, is suitable for more demanding applications such as advanced metal engraving.

Using LaserGRBL for Parameter Optimization

To achieve precise and repeatable results, LaserGRBL provides a built-in tool called Power vs Speed Test, which allows users to quickly identify optimal engraving parameters for specific materials.

Step 1: Access the Power vs Speed Test Tool

From the LaserGRBL main interface, Select:

• Generate → Power vs Speed Test

This will open the parameter configuration window.

Step 2: Configure Power Settings

LaserGRBL uses a scaled power system:

• S-10 = 1% power
• S-1000 = 100% power

For testing purposes, it is recommended to define a power range such as:

• Minimum: 100
• Maximum: 1000
• Step size: 10

This allows fine-grained control over laser output for accurate material testing.

Step 3: Configure Speed Settings

Next, define engraving speed based on material type:

• Wood: approximately 3000–9000 mm/min
• Metal & steel: approximately 100–1500 mm/min

A recommended configuration is to use 7 steps for balanced testing coverage.

Step 4: Set Line Density (Quality)

The engraving resolution can be adjusted using line density settings:

• Recommended range: 8000–12000 lines/mm

Higher values result in finer detail but longer processing time.

Step 5: Generate the Test File

After configuring parameters, click: “Create!”

LaserGRBL will generate a test pattern combining multiple power and speed combinations for evaluation.

Step 6: Export and Run the Test

To proceed:

1. Select File → Save (Advanced Option)
2. Export the generated file as G-code
3. Transfer it to a microSD card or device storage
4. Run the test on the LONGER Ray5 or B1

Alternatively, the test can also be executed directly via USB connection using the Cutting Test mode, if preferred.

Step 7: Analyze Results and Optimize Settings

After completion, carefully inspect the engraved test pattern. The variations in tone, depth, and clarity will help determine the most suitable combination of power and speed for your specific material and desired effect.

This calibration process is essential for achieving consistent high-quality results, especially in advanced applications such as metal marking and multicolor engraving.

Conclusion

The LaserGRBL Power vs Speed Test is an effective way to optimize engraving parameters for the LONGER Ray5 20W and B1 laser engravers.

By testing different combinations of laser power and speed, users can achieve more consistent engraving results across various materials. Whether working on wood, metal, or other surfaces, proper parameter adjustment helps improve engraving quality and project efficiency.

FAQ

1. What is the Power vs Speed Test in LaserGRBL?

It is a tool that creates a test pattern with different power and speed combinations to help users find optimal engraving settings.

2. Why do laser power and speed need to be adjusted?

Different materials respond differently to laser energy, so adjusting parameters helps achieve better engraving quality.

3. Should I test settings before every engraving project?

Testing is recommended when using a new material or changing engraving requirements to achieve consistent results.