Preparing your Workspace for your Nova

4 nova series thunder laser machines with a stock image of agarage in the background. overlaid are the words preparing your workspace for your nova machie

In preparing your workspace for your Nova machine, one thing to consider before the machine arrives is how much space you will need.

 

One thing to note is that Thunder Laser manufactures our machines so they can fit through a standard doorway, but you should always check your doorway measurements, since your doorway may not be standard size. Check out our resources below for more information on fitting your laser into tight spaces

More information can be found here:

One thing to consider before the machine arrives is how much space you will need for the machine and peripherals like the chiller, air compressor, or exhaust – both the fan and Exhaust Tubing Routing (see more of that topic below). Plus, you may also want to leave some space around the back and sides for access. You may need to get into the doors on the back and sides of your machine if you ever run into any support issues.  

You will also need to plan your exhaust route. This should include a way to route the exhaust ducting, to mount the fan and power the fan, and to allow for fresh air back into your space. 

The best practice is to have as short of a venting run as possible, with no more than two 90-degree bends. We would also recommend placing your exhaust fan near the end of your exhaust tubing – you want to be pulling air out rather than pushing it through the tube.  You may need to purchase an extension cable for the exhaust fan and longer exhaust hosing if your setup requires it; These can typically be found at your local hardware store, but contact support@thunderlaser.ca if you are unsure and need assistance.

You can also run a filter box setup that can interface with the machine. Read more in our article below

 

More information can be found here:

Electrical Install plan:

Other than the Nova 24, you will likely need to upgrade your circuit panel to plug in our medium and larger sized Nova machines.  The receptacle should be placed such that the machine can be plugged into it without the use of an extension cord.

 

Let your electrician know that the required connection for Nova 35, 51 and 63 is 120v 20amp. Thunder Lasers do not operate and will be damaged is you use 220v.

From this dedicated 120V circuit, all the peripherals – the air compressor, chiller, and exhaust – will plug into the back of the laser machine, which will control the main power for all of these devices.

 

More information can be found about the Electrical requirements for your machine here:

Thunder Laser Main Power Requirements

Understanding 20A Plug – 15A Receptacle Incompatibility

 

Stands For Nova 24

While the Nova 24 is a desktop type machine, you will need a stand to sit it on for ergonomic comfort of use.

More information about where to buy or how to build a stand for your Nova 24 can be found here:

 

Article: Nova 24 Stand Options

 

Free Training Prep Checklist

Have you taken advantage of your free 1 hour Training Session? Find a link to our booking calendar below Book Your Training Session with Reade

Before your training session, please do your best to ensure you’ve taken the following steps:

    • Have your laser unboxed and ready to go

    • This includes setting it up your workspace on a table/workbench

    • Lightburn installed – its okay if you haven’t gotten a code or set your registration up yet, lightburn gives you a fully capable 30 day free trial period 

    However, if you’re looking to get the most out of your training session, we would recommend:

    • Attempt a cut /engrave of your own

      • Even if you don’t get the results you want – we can help you find out what went wrong, and how to get you there

    • Try multiple materials 

    • Have ideas/plans for what you want to make – we can help you with tips and tricks for cutting and optimizing your designs

    • Questions you want us to answer

Blogs: Getting Started with your Nova Series Machine

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