GCC Technologies LaserPro X252RX, User Manual

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Chapter I - Safety
1.1 Principles of a CO2 Laser
LASER is the acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A CO
2
laser works by electrically stimulating the molecules within a carbon dioxide gas mixture.
When focused through a lens, this highly-intense, invisible beam will vaporize many materials.
Depending on the speed and intensity of the projected beam, a CO
2
laser may be used to
engrave or cut through a wide variety of materials.
1.2 Safety Ratings
The LaserPro X252RX & X380RX is equipped with a sealed carbon-dioxide laser that emits
intense and invisible laser radiation with a wavelength of 10.6 microns in the infrared
spectrum. The laser system is designated as a Class I laser device, meaning that the
system is equipped with key safety features and an enclosed laser head to completely
contain the laser under normal use. One of the key safety features found on the LaserPro
X252RX & X380RX is a Class 2 red dot safety guidance pointer (similar to a laser-pointer
presentation pen) allowing the operator to see the exact location where the laser beam will
fire. Even though the LaserPro X252RX & X380RX is equipped with our most powerful laser
to date, proper usage and hardware safeguards make it an extremely safe machine. When
the front door and back door are open, machine becomes a Class 4 equipment and users
must wear goggles to operate the machine.
1.3 The Safety Interlock System
The laser system is equipped with a safety interlock system utilizing magnetic sensors on the
top and side access doors, laser-activation and door LED lights on the control panel. The
magnetic sensors will deactivate the laser when either door is opened. At this time, the “door”
LED light found on the control panel will illuminate, indicating an open or improperly closed
door. When the laser is in operation, the “laser” LED will illuminate to inform the operator that
the laser is activated. If at any time, any of the access doors are open and the “laser” LED is
illuminated, IMMEDIATELY unplugs the laser system and contact GCC technical support for
service instructions.
WARNING
•
DO NOT operate the laser system if any component of the safety system is
malfunctioning.
•
DO NOT attempt to remove or modify any component of the safety interlock system.
1.4 Safety Labels
According to CDRH standards, all fixed or removable covers that allow access to a laser beam
must have the appropriate laser warning labels attached to them. These warning labels must
be clearly visible to the operator prior to removing the cover. Additional labels must be applied
inside of the machine and be visible in the event the covers are removed. A label clearly