Laseing Cigars

[Patrick OBrien]

I did 2 searches, and could find no hits.....
so here it goes. Any suggestions on laseing fine cigars?
My research indicates dark wrappers supposedly lase better.
Guesstimates on settings?
Has anyone done these?
Thanks in advance for any replies.

Pat
Epilog Mini 18 25W

[Carol VanArnam]

I've seen it done. Let me look for the web link... I know I saved it.

[Carol VanArnam]

http://www.coronacigar.com/products/productList.asp?categoryId=12 (http://www.coronacigar.com/products/productList.asp?categoryId=12)

http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Features/CA_Feature_Basic_Template/0,2344,56,00.html (http://www.cigaraficionado.com/Cigar/CA_Features/CA_Feature_Basic_Template/0,2344,56,00.html)

here are 2 web pages. Just google Laser and Cigar and you will find more links....

[Frank Corker]

Pat, cigars are so cheap, why not just have a go? The cigar wrapper is generally a khaki brown colour, some more so than others, I would imagine that your speed will be fast and power low. The result should be a lighter khaki colour. If you are worried about starting the cigar, either have a cigar smoking friend around who can smoke on request, or the alternative is to take thicker than average letter paper and laser it. The result should be a slightly brown burning on the paper, this will give you an indication of the speed you will need to do a cigar. Try lasering the cigar after touching the outside area to be engraved with a damp cloth, that will reduce your chances of starting it or burning through.

[Neal Schlee]

Be careful! Corona says they've patented the cigar lasering process! Yea right! :D

Neal

[Phyllis Meyer]

I looked up that patent number, and also just typed in US Patents. It's a very interesting site. Once you get there type in Laser Engraving. It makes for interesting reading!

Phyllis:)

[Patrick OBrien]

Frank,
I know what you mean, but these are not cheap cigars. I was just trying to draw upon our vast wealth of knowledge, before I start burning. I agree, fast and low power to start. I'm guessing 85SPD & 15PWR to start with our 25W Epi. I'll keep you guys posted on our progress....AND a sharp eye out for those pesky Patent Attorneys! I wonder if they Patented printer outputs too? Some newspapers and magazines might be in BIG trouble!

[Frank Corker]

Patrick, I wasn't suggesting you laser the 'job' cigars first off. What I was suggesting is that you use cheap cigars that you practise on. You will be able to run through at least 10 runs on one cheap cigar and find out what is a starting point and what is not. Then if you find an ideal one on the cheapo ones, then you could have a go at the good stuff.

If it were me having a go at the expensive one and concerned I might go too far, I would be inclined to start my settings at 100 sp and 5% power. If it leaves no mark what ever, twist it a turn (the height of the lettering) and have a go at 10, then 15. Eventually you will find one that doesn't fire the cigar up, nor burn a hole in it, but will leave a different coloured marking than the cigar and when the contrast is strong enough, that'll be the one

[Brian Conklin]

This is my first attempt so go easy on me....:D

[Frank Corker]

Brilliant. If you light it up and the smoke doesn't come through it looks like it's perfect to me.

[Brian Conklin]

Well, I can guarantee I won't be lighting it up for a smoke........cough cough! I am going to take the machine a little more out of focus to see it I can get a wider burn and try to eliminate the cut through the outer layer.