If, like us, you’ve been keeping a keen eye on the 3D printing market, you may have noticed a number of machines that now combine 3D printing with CNC cutting and laser engraving. There’s the Zmorph 2.0 for example, or even the more recent Super Helper from Winbo 3D printers, both offering a more complete package when it comes to adding a personal finish to your products. Though investing in a new machine might be tempting, it isn’t that practical, especially if you’ve got a model that you know and trust at home. In that case, wouldn’t an upgrade be better? This is just the thought behind the new L-Cheapo MK4 diode laser from Endurance.
Endurance’s first version of the L-Cheapo came out in 2014, providing 2.1W of power. Two years later, the MK4 has almost tripled that power at 5.6W. The upgrade makes the MK4 L-Cheapo stronger than the lasers currently found in several other multi-tool machine in the same price bracket. In an upgrade to a more traditional 3D printer, it’s also reassuring to know that no extra cooling fans or power is needed when you install an L-Cheapo.
This gif shows the L-Chepo MK3 3.5W laser engraving in glass. (Taken from a video by George Formichev on Youtube)
The laser is capable of cutting through anything up to the equivalent on 6mm of wood, and is suitable for etching glass, aluminum and copper, and has been tested to ensure up to 48 hours of continuous use. The new MK4 5.6W laser and its predecessor, the MK3 3.5W L-Cheapo, are available to buy from the Endurance Lasers website, with a $20 discount when using promo code “sale” at checkout. Endurance was established in January 2015 by Russian entrepreneur and engineer, George Fomichev, from Moscow and Matteo Borri, formerly of NASA.
Featured image shows aluminium engraved with the Endurance logo. Photo via: Endurance Lasers
