laser cutting mother of pearl shell
Hi all
Has anyone found a way of cutting mother of pearl shell? I have tried the laminate stuff, and it is easier, but am I right in thinking that the real shell is pretty much impossible to cut (or raster all the way through) without it turning brittle and flaky? In fact completely falling apart really. I have posted this on another thread, and thank you for the responses some of you guys have given, but thought I would give this its own thread in the hope of attracting more assistance.
I am beginning to think that this material just can't be done - after all the laser has to be hot to do the cutting/rastering, and it seems that that sort of temperature causes the material at all close to the cut to disintegrate. Any cooler and the stuff just isn't affected by the laser.
Any ideas?
laser cutting mother of pearl shell
I have never tried it and don't have any to try, but have seen it done. Perhaps transfer tape on both sides and misted with water plus lower frequency as Bob suggested would be worth a try. Another option is less power, 2-3 passes
laser cutting mother of pearl shell
Here's an interesing article, sounds like even rastoring is a pain.
http://www.liv.ac.uk/researchintelli...catingart.html
laser cutting mother of pearl shell
It certainly is a very interesting page! It shows it can be done - and they are only about 4 hours drive from me! I might just have to contact them....