3D Illusion Slate Coasters: Tips for Preparing, Processing, and Laser Engraving
April 28, 2026Magnetic Tumbler vs Dremel: Polishing Brass Coins Efficiently
April 29, 2026Uneven Fiber Laser Engraving on Brass: Causes and How to Fix It
If you’re new to fiber laser engraving, you may run into issues where your engraving comes out uneven. For example, on a 2′ x 3″ brass plate, the left side may be crisp and deep, while the right side barely marks. This is a common problem for beginners using machines like a 30W fiber laser with LightBurn.
For more guidance on common fiber laser questions and beginner tips, check out Top 10 MOPA Fiber Laser Questions Answered for Beginners.
Why Uneven Engraving Happens
The main cause of uneven engraving is misalignment between the laser’s galvo head and the workpiece table. If the two aren’t in the same plane:
- The left side of your workpiece may be in perfect focus, producing deep, crisp marks.
- The right side may be slightly closer or farther from the focal plane, causing shallow or faint engraving.
In other words, your laser beam isn’t hitting the material at the same optimal focus across the entire surface.
For tips on avoiding common engraving mistakes, check out Top 10 Common Mistakes in Laser Engraving and How to Avoid Them.
How to Fix Uneven Engraving
1. Level the Table
Ensure that the workpiece table is perfectly flat from front to back and left to right. Even slight tilts can cause one side to engrave poorly.
2. Level the Galvo Head
Once the table is flat, check the galvo head alignment. It should be as parallel as possible to the table across the entire engraving area.
Aim for the laser and table to be in the same plane as close as you can measure. This ensures the focus is uniform across your workpiece.
3. Test and Adjust
After leveling:
- Run a small test engraving across the width of your brass plate.
- Check if the engraving is consistent from left to right.
- Make small adjustments to the galvo head or table height as needed.
Tips for Beginners Using LightBurn
- Always verify focus before starting a full engraving.
- Work with smaller test pieces before committing to large or expensive materials.
- Document your setup so you can reproduce consistent results on future projects.
Conclusion
Uneven engraving on brass is usually caused by a focus plane mismatch between the table and the galvo head. By carefully leveling the table and galvo head, you can achieve consistent depth and crisp markings across the entire workpiece. Small test engravings and adjustments are key to mastering your fiber laser setup.
