A Guide to Laser Modules: Types, Selection, and Maintenance

Written by Hall LU

Published on March 10th, 2025

When choosing a laser engraving machine, understanding different laser modules is crucial. Various types of laser modules are available on the market, each suited for different applications. This article will guide you through the types of laser modules, their pricing, and how to choose the right one for your needs. Additionally, we’ll cover essential maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your laser module.

Types of Laser Modules

1. 1064nm Infrared (Red Light) Laser Modules

Primarily used for engraving on metals and certain plastics.
Most frame-style laser engraving machines use 2W infrared laser heads, regardless of advertised wattage. This is because the current pump source suppliers can only provide up to 2W.

2. Blue Light Laser Modules (Common Power Variants)

Available in 2W, 5W, 10W, 20W, 40W, and 80W.
The higher the power, the more expensive the module.
Pricing reference:
- 2W – Below $100 (Best for fine-detail engraving, especially photo engraving, but not suitable for cutting)
- 5W – Around $150 (Can handle light cutting but at low efficiency, best for engraving)
- 10W – Around $260 (A balanced choice for both engraving and cutting)
- 20W – Around $550 (More focused on cutting, capable of cutting 10mm+ wood efficiently)
- 40W – Around $800 (Designed for high-speed cutting of thicker materials)

【10W】LU2-10A

【5W】LU2-4SF

【5W】LU2-4LF

【20W】LU3-20A

【40W】LU3-40A

【2W】LR4-2B 1064nm

How to Choose the Right Laser Module?

When selecting a laser module, consider the following factors:

Material Compatibility:

Metal engraving → Choose 1064nm infrared (2W).
Wood, acrylic, and leather engraving/cutting → Choose a blue laser module with power depending on your needs.

Power Requirements:

2W: Excellent for fine-detail engraving (e.g., photo engraving), but not suitable for cutting.
5W: Good for engraving and can perform light cutting, but cutting efficiency is low.
10W: A well-balanced choice, offering both good engraving performance and cutting capabilities.
20W and above: Primarily designed for cutting efficiency, capable of cutting 10mm+ wood with ease.

Budget:

If you are a beginner, a 5W-10W module is a cost-effective choice.
If you need more power for professional use, 20W and above may be a better investment.

Laser Module Maintenance & Lifespan

A well-maintained laser module can last up to 20,000 hours. However, several factors affect its actual lifespan. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

1. Clean the Lens Regularly

Dust and smoke can reduce laser efficiency. Use a lint-free cloth and proper cleaning solution to wipe the lens.

It is very similar to the maintenance of a camera lens.

2. Keep the Work Area Clean

Maintain a dust-free environment to prevent buildup on the laser path and machine surface.

If it is frequently used without being cleaned, it will lead to a serious accumulation of dust, which will affect the heat dissipation and, in turn, affect the lifespan of the laser module.

It is generally recommended to clean it once a month. You can use cotton swabs, alcohol, and a brush for the cleaning. For a more thorough cleaning, you need to completely disassemble it, brush it with a brush, and then use a low-power air gun to blow away the dust.

3. Avoid Continuous Overuse

Do not run the laser for more than 8 hours continuously. Allow cooling breaks to prevent overheating.

4. Control Laser Power

If full power is not necessary, keep laser power at 80% or below to reduce wear and extend lifespan.

5. Understand Optical Decay

Over time, all laser modules will experience optical decay, similar to how EV batteries degrade over time. Proper maintenance helps slow this process.

Many users following these maintenance guidelines have kept their lasers running smoothly for over five years.

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Conclusion

Among all available laser modules, the 10W blue light laser module is currently the most recommended option. It offers a great balance of performance and affordability, providing both strong engraving capabilities and efficient cutting power. Within a reasonable price range, the 10W module delivers the most versatile and well-rounded performance.

If your primary focus is photo engraving, a 2W module is ideal due to its small spot size, producing highly detailed images. However, its cutting ability is limited. A 5W module improves cutting ability slightly but still leans more towards engraving. If you need both engraving and cutting, the 10W module is the best choice. For those prioritizing cutting efficiency, 20W and higher modules are more suitable, especially for cutting materials over 10mm thick.

If you have any questions about laser module selection or maintenance, feel free to reach out!