This FAQ is meant to give you an idea about what sorts of speed and power settings you can use to get started with various materials. Please refer to our recommended materials article for additional information on material choices.
These are guidelines and examples, so please remember to err on the side of caution and always start by using a corner or scrap piece of your material to dial in your settings before beginning any large jobs.
As a reminder, cutting on your laser cutter is referred to as "LINE" in the Lightburn software and engraving is referred to as "FILL".
On a 60W laser, when cutting plywood, MDF, or acrylic that is between 2mm and 6mm thick you can generally start at 100% power. Generally, a speed 11-22mm/s is appropriate for cutting. The thicker the material, the slower the machine will need to go.
For engraving the same materials you can use a power of 50% to 100% and a speed of 200-300mm/s. Naturally, the higher the power and/or the slower the speed, the deeper the engrave will be.
On a 60W laser, when cutting paper, cardboard, or foam core that is between 0.5mm and 4mm you can start at 50% power and speed 100mm/s. As above, the thinner the material, the faster speed and lower power required.
Generally you will not engrave paper materials because they are too thin and may catch fire or smolder if you pass over the same area too many times - however, with very low power, it is possible.
Please note that paper products are highly flammable. Monitor the machine closely and be ready to extinguish any flames while they are still small.
As a starting point, we've prepared a rough Lightburn Material Library file for the Mako line of laser cutters. You can find the download link below.
Mako 60W Laser Cutter Lightburn Material Library - Version 1.0 - October 27, 2022 - Download
You can use the library by enabling the "Library" box under "Window"
You can now access the Library tab on the bottom right toolbar:
Use Load to import the material database, then select the appropriate material type and use Assign to assign it to one of your file's layers.
Remember that these settings are a starting point, and there are a number of variables that can change the settings needed for a given material. Some amount of trial and error is needed when working with any new material.