OMTech CO2 Polar Lite

What the OMTech CO2 Polar Lite can make

The OMTech CO2 Polar Lite is a CO2 laser cutter: its infrared beam cuts and engraves wood, acrylic of any colour, leather, fabric, paper and rubber, and engraves glass, stone and coated metal. It is the usual choice for cutting acrylic and thicker wood.

It has a rated laser power of 55 W, a work area of 511 × 300 mm (20.1 × 11.8 in) and a top engraving speed of 500 mm/s.

It works with a camera for positioning designs on the material, autofocus, support for a rotary attachment to engrave tumblers and other round objects, air assist for cleaner cuts and LightBurn and RDWorks software.

OMTech CO2 Polar Lite safety and compliance

The brand's listing does not state the OMTech CO2 Polar Lite's laser class. Open-frame diode lasers are usually Class 4: use laser safety glasses rated for the wavelength, and never leave the machine running unattended.

Every laser engraver makes smoke and fumes: run it with an exhaust to the outdoors or a fume purifier. Never cut PVC or vinyl, which release corrosive chlorine gas.

The brand states FDA compliance: laser products sold in the United States must meet the FDA's laser performance standard (21 CFR 1040.10) and be reported to the FDA, which issues an accession number.

Other compliance the brand states: CE (the manufacturer's declaration of conformity with EU product rules).