405nm or 445nm for laser engraving?

[XFast]

i want to build a small laser engraving machine. but which is the best spectrum for engraving? 405 or 445nm ? i want to use 200-300mW. if possible, i want to cut paper and foil to make my own masks for airbrushing.

thanks for help.

 

[SilverFire]

You may need a lot more power than 300mW to cut white paper or aluminum foil. Regarding spectrum for the best burning, most people here recommend 445nm due to the $$$ per mW. If someone who actually owns violet and blue lasers says otherwise, then ignore whatever I said.
Anyway, sorry I cant give you the exact answer you need, I am still shopping for high powered lasers myself.
Hope this helps somewhat. :yh:

 

[XFast]

there are other opinions?

What is better for engraving 300mW 405nm oder 445nm?
445nm is cheaper, so i can get a 500mW laser. But what is better, the 300mW 405nm oder the 500mw 445nm ??

 

[lazeristasUVISIR]

my 2cnts

If the power is fixed you must look how your materials absorb those wavelengths and what will be the spot sizes of your focused beams (aka intensity)

Whatever you'll choose get a good safety glasses - reflection from Al can engrave your own eyes :can:

 

[SN P]

445nm is the cheaper option per mW but 405nm (at the same mW as 445nm) is better for burning