> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://protolab.gitbook.io/protolab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://protolab.gitbook.io/protolab/equipment/subtractive-manufacturing.md).

# Subtractive Manufacturing

## Laser Cutting

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="About" %}

<figure><img src="/files/ulUe1Llam12BM8wE5pmI" alt=""><figcaption><p>Image Sources: <a href="https://www.makerspace.uq.edu.au/project/laser-engraver-speedy500">Left</a> / <a href="https://www.fastsigns.com/toronto-on-wexford-maryvale/about-us/local-projects/engraving-plaques/">Right</a></p></figcaption></figure>

A laser beam is focussed to the depth of the material and programmed via CNC to cut and etch 2D digital designs into sheet materials.

#### **Our Machines**

* Trotec SP500, 3x
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Materials" %}
*Available at the ProtoLAB:*

**Offcuts** and **cardboard sheets** are freely available.

For access to **other materials**, show your design files to a technician to discuss material options and determine the best material for your purpose.

| Material               | Thicknesses       | Max Sheet Size (mm) |
| ---------------------- | ----------------- | ------------------- |
| Cardboard (Corrugated) | 2mm               | 1200 x 600          |
| Cardboard (White)      | 0.5mm, 1mm, 2.5mm | 1050 x 700          |
| Cardboard (Grey)       | 1mm, 2.5mm        | 1020 x 700          |
| Polypropylene          | 0.6mm             | 1220 x 665          |
| Plywood (Interior)     | 3mm, 5mm, 9mm     | 1200 x 600          |
| Acrylic (Clear)        | 2mm, 3mm          | 1200 x 600          |
| {% endtab %}           |                   |                     |

{% tab title="File Preparation" %}
File Type: Adobe Illustrator **.ai**

Units: **mm**

Colour Mode: **RGB**

<mark style="color:red;">**Cut**</mark> Line Settings\
\- Stroke Weight: **0.01mm**\
**-** Stroke Colour: <mark style="color:red;">**R 255  G 0  B 0**</mark>

<mark style="color:blue;">**Score**</mark> Line Settings\
\- Stroke Weight: **0.01mm**\
**-** Stroke Colour: <mark style="color:blue;">**R 0  G 0  B 255**</mark>

Ensure:\
\- NO Clipping Masks\
\- NO Swatch Patterns

### Handbook

{% file src="/files/y2lfSK5p9PztzOYbySXa" %}
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Access" %}

#### <mark style="background-color:purple;">INDUCTION REQUIRED</mark>

#### [**Complete the Induction**](/protolab/equipment/subtractive-manufacturing/laser-cutting-induction.md)

Once you pass the [Laser Cutting Induction](/protolab/equipment/subtractive-manufacturing/laser-cutting-induction.md), you may use the laser cutter during [Open Hours](/protolab/contact-us.md#open-hours).

#### Or, [Submit a Job](/protolab/services/job-submission.md)

Submit your file and your parts will be ready for collection in 7 days time. Refer to the "File Preparation Guide" to ensure you have selected appropriate materials and prepared your file correctly to avoid delays.
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

## Mini 3-Axis Mill

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="About" %}

<figure><img src="/files/YD3uChrafeMj99sW2dzt" alt=""><figcaption><p>Image Sources: <a href="https://www.pdi3d.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=MDX-540&#x26;Click=1930">Left</a> / <a href="https://www.machines4u.com.au/mag/woodworking-routers/">Right</a></p></figcaption></figure>

A cutting tool is programmed via CNC to route 3D digital designs into a block of softer material (e.g. plywood, timber, linoleum, foam, circuit board).

#### **Our Machines**

* Roland ModelAProII MDX-540, 2x
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Materials" %}
*Available at the ProtoLAB:*

| Material                  | Thicknesses      | Max Sheet Size (mm) |
| ------------------------- | ---------------- | ------------------- |
| Plywood (Interior)        | 12mm, 15mm, 19mm | 550 x 420           |
| Formply                   | 17mm             | 550 x 420           |
| Assorted Timber           |                  |                     |
| Extruded Polystyrene Foam |                  | 550 x 420           |
| {% endtab %}              |                  |                     |

{% tab title="File Preparation" %}

{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Access" %}

#### <mark style="background-color:orange;">TECHNICIAN-ASSISTED</mark>

[**Submit a Job**](/protolab/services/job-submission.md)

or&#x20;

[**Book a Technician**](/protolab/services/book-a-technician.md)
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

## 3-Axis Mill

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="About" %}

<figure><img src="/files/IQ0kF9woYKr57snEXd8H" alt=""><figcaption><p>Image Sources: <a href="https://prod.cloudfront.making.unsw.edu.au/documents/Machine_Info_Guide_nVxG9pd.pdf">Left</a></p></figcaption></figure>

A cutting tool is programmed via CNC to route 3D digital designs into a block of softer (i.e. not steel) material (e.g. plywood, timber, foam).

#### **Our Machines**

* MultiCAM SL2515V, 1x
* Biesse RoverK ft 12 24, 1x
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Materials" %}
*Available at the ProtoLAB:*

| Material                  | Thicknesses           | Max Sheet Size (mm) |
| ------------------------- | --------------------- | ------------------- |
| Plywood (Interior)        | 9mm, 12mm, 15mm, 19mm | 2400 x 1200         |
| Formply                   | 17mm                  | 2400 x 1200         |
| Assorted Timber           |                       |                     |
| Extruded Polystyrene Foam |                       | 2400 x 600          |
| {% endtab %}              |                       |                     |

{% tab title="File Preparation" %}
Check out the [video series](https://swinburne.instructure.com/courses/36937/pages/cnc-training-video?module_item_id=2343938) (30 minutes total) introducing the machining process, file preparation and design considerations.

*If you do not have access to the ProtoLAB Canvas page, please email us at <protolab@swin.edu.au>*
{% endtab %}

{% tab title="Access" %}

#### <mark style="background-color:orange;">TECHNICIAN-ASSISTED</mark>

[**Submit a Job**](/protolab/services/job-submission.md)

or&#x20;

[**Book a Technician**](/protolab/services/book-a-technician.md)
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

## 5-Axis Metal Mill

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="About" %}

<figure><img src="/files/jWZyRsj05vzV7AhACiOC" alt=""><figcaption><p>Image Sources: <a href="https://www.ironbox.com.au/">Left </a>/ <a href="https://www.5axismachiningchina.com/">Right</a></p></figcaption></figure>

A cutting tool is programmed via CNC to route 3D digital designs into a block of metal (e.g. aluminium, mild steel, brass).

#### **Our Machines**

* DMG Mori DMU 50 eco, 1x
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Access" %}

#### <mark style="background-color:orange;">TECHNICIAN-ASSISTED</mark>

[**Book a Technician**](/protolab/services/book-a-technician.md)
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}

## Metal Lathe

{% tabs %}
{% tab title="About" %}

<figure><img src="/files/7p9ufNZGM2ppnYxJeKsB" alt=""><figcaption><p>Image Sources: <a href="https://www.machinetools.com/en/models/okuma-lu3000-ex">Left</a> / <a href="https://streametal.de/en/cnc-turning/">Right</a></p></figcaption></figure>

A cutting tool is programmed via CNC to turn 3D digital designs from cylindrical metal stock (e.g. aluminium, mild steel, brass).

#### **Our Machines**

* Okuma LB3000EX2, 1x
  {% endtab %}

{% tab title="Access" %}

#### <mark style="background-color:orange;">TECHNICIAN-ASSISTED</mark>

[**Book a Technician**](/protolab/services/book-a-technician.md)
{% endtab %}
{% endtabs %}