Glowforge Plus — Anodized Aluminum
1 community-tested setting for engrave Anodized Aluminum on the Glowforge Plus. Always run a test on scrap material first.
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These 1 setting cover engrave Anodized Aluminum on the Glowforge Plus (45W CO₂ laser). Metal marking typically requires Cermark spray or an anodized coating — bare metal cutting needs a much higher-powered machine.
1 setting
Frequently asked questions
What speed should I use to engrave Anodized Aluminum on the Glowforge Plus?
The top-rated community setting uses 500 mm/min at 100% power. 40W CO2, identical tube to Basic. Speed 1000 GF units / full power / 340 LPI is the community starting point. Plus shares the Basic's power ceiling. Source: community.glowforge.com/t/lines-per-inch-on-anodized-aluminum/27972 + community.glowforge.com/t/settings-for-anodized-aluminum/122071
Can the Glowforge Plus cut Anodized Aluminum?
A 45W CO₂ laser can mark or engrave metal surfaces but cannot cut through them — metal cutting requires a much higher-powered laser or a plasma cutter.
How many passes does the Glowforge Plus need to engrave Anodized Aluminum?
All settings here use a single pass. Confirm focus and do a small test burn before committing to your final design.
Do I need air assist for Anodized Aluminum on the Glowforge Plus?
Air assist is not flagged as required for these settings, but it is good practice during cutting operations to keep the lens clean and reduce char buildup.
Now make something with Anodized Aluminum
Templates ready to cut on your Glowforge Plus once you've dialed in the settings.
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— Anna
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