Laser Cutter

Due to the fact that the new laser cutter is faster and more powerful than our current model, the pricing will be different on each of our two models to reflect these variances.    

Universal X660 (current laser cutter that we have been using)

Chipboard, matte-board, museum board, basswood, other wood and paper based products:
$1.00 per minute for the first 10 minutes - $.50 per minute thereafter – this pricing remains unchanged.

Universal VLS660 (new laser cutter)

Chipboard, Matte-board, museum board, Basswood, other wood and paper based products:
$1.30 per minute for the first 10 minutes - $.65 per minute thereafter

Acrylic based material – Vector and Raster cuts (Acrylic cutting will be available in the future – there are still many logistical details to work out)
$1.40 per minute for the first 10 minutes - $.70 per minute thereafter

Acrylic Pricing

Acrylic sheets are now available for purchase in the print center.  The prices and sizes are:

18x32

1/16" - $10.00
1/8" - $12.50
1/4" - $25.00

Thicknesses are approximate - prices are subject to change due to market fluctuations.

To address your questions and concerns about the new laser cutter and pricing structure, please read the following “Frequently Asked Questions”.  

Q: Why is the new laser cutter more expensive?  Aren’t we paying enough!?!?
A: While the new laser cutter costs more per minute, it is faster than the current laser cutter.  This will make the cost of the new laser cutter comparable to the cost of the current laser cutter.  We have spent many hours testing, benchmarking, configuring materials, and comparing times of both laser cutters in order to keep the pricing relative to the time of each machine.  There are many factors to consider when benchmarking both machines including the material type, laser speed, laser power, laser pulses per inch, Z setting times, etc.  All of these settings are not only different for each type of material – but different on each machine!  Short of charging a different price for each material on each machine, we believe the adjusted pricing is fair.  Changes to this pricing structure may be made at a later date if deemed necessary.       

Q: Why are acrylic based materials more expensive to cut?
A: To cut acrylic based materials without damaging the optics of the laser cutter over time, a refrigerated air system needed to be purchased with the new laser cutter.  This air system cost several thousand dollars extra.  Because of this, and the potential for future maintenance to this system, the additional fee is necessary.

Q: When will acrylic cutting be available?
A: Acrylic cutting is now available!

Q: What kind of acrylic can we cut, how thick can it be, and where do we get it?
A: Acrylic sheets can be purchased in the print center.  Please see above for current pricing.  You may alternatively purchase "Optix" or "Plexi" branded acrylic from various home improvement/hardware stores for use on the laser cutter.  The label or paper/plastic covering indicating the brand and type of plastic must be affixed to the acrylic sheet by the factory in order for us to use it on the laser cutter.      

Q: Can I specify which laser cutter will be used on my job?
A: In an effort to keep the line moving, the student employee has the final say over what machine will be used.  Certain materials that are particularly dense, or thick will typically be cut on the new laser cutter.  Acrylic based materials will always be cut on the new laser cutter.  

Color Plotter

Save your file as a .psd or .pdf.
Please flatten all .psd files prior to having your file printed.   

Color Bond - $9.00 per linear foot
Satin - $11.00 per linear foot

Examples:
A 24” x 36” color bond print would cost $18
A 40” x 84” color bond print would cost $63

Scanner

Large format scanning has been discontinued by the CAED Digital Fabrication and Print Center.  Scanning can be done off-site at SE Blueprint at a discounted rate for CAED students.  The cost is $1.00 per square foot (color) and $.25 per square foot (b/w).  This price is subject to change without notice.  Please contact SE Blueprint for more information or to make an appointment:

SE Blueprint
540 South Main Street, Suite 211
Akron, Ohio 44311
330-376-1689   

*In an effort to minimize laser cutting delays, the following policy has been implemented. No setup fee will be charged if the laser cutting format guide located at www.kent.edu/caed/about/computing/print/lasercutting.cfm has been followed.  If this guide is not followed and extensive time is required to properly format your file, you may be charged a $15 setup fee (at the print room employee’s discretion).  You will be notified in advance if your file requires a setup fee.