Product Review - Creality Falcon 2 Laser Engraver and Cutter

Summary

Joe P from Advanced Innovations reviews the Creality Falcon 2 laser engraver and cutter. Despite his limited experience with laser machines, he finds the assembly straightforward and the packaging impressive. The 40-watt laser head offers powerful engraving capabilities, and the machine's features include an aluminum frame, indicator lights, and an air pump for smoke evacuation. Joe points out a learning curve with the software and a minor design flaw with the memory card port placement. He also demonstrates the machine's engraving precision and suggests it's user-friendly once the initial challenges are overcome.

Takeaways

• 📦 The Creality Falcon 2 laser engraver and cutter comes in a well-packaged box with high-density foam for secure transport.
• 🔧 Assembly of the machine is straightforward and fast, with clear instructions and Plug and Play components.
• 💡 The 40-watt laser head is a standout feature, offering more power and efficiency compared to lower wattage lasers.
• 🖼️ The machine has an aluminum frame that is anodized and sits on legs with rubber tips to minimize vibration.
• 🛑 Indicator lights on the front show the status of the machine, turning red if there's an issue that causes the machine to shut down.
• 🌫️ An air pump is included to blow smoke and debris away from the cut area, helping to keep the lens clean.
• 📐 The control panel is user-friendly with buttons for go, pause, frame, and home functions, but there's a learning curve to mastering the machine.
• 🚫 A significant negative point is the lack of instructions about the necessity to hit the frame button before starting a job.
• 🔒 The machine can be secured with a lock to prevent unauthorized use, and it comes with an 'oops' button for emergencies.
• 🔩 The machine has a 400mm (15.6-inch) footprint and can accommodate various materials under the laser head for cutting or engraving.
• 💨 A smoke enclosure is available as an accessory, which helps contain smoke and debris, but accessing the memory card slot can be awkward when enclosed.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is a review of the Creality Falcon 2 laser engraver and cutter by Joe P from Advanced Innovations.

What is the purpose of the video?

The purpose of the video is to provide an unbiased, unscripted, and honest review of the Creality Falcon 2 laser engraver and cutter, including its assembly, features, and performance.

What is Joe P's experience with laser engravers and cutters?

Joe P has very little experience with laser engravers and cutters, but he has done some 3D prototyping with a CO2 laser, which is different from the diode laser in the Creality Falcon 2.

How was the packaging of the Creality Falcon 2 described in the video?

The packaging of the Creality Falcon 2 was described as very well done, with high-density foam and secure packaging suitable for transport, making damage during transport unlikely.

What are some of the features of the 40-watt laser head mentioned in the video?

The 40-watt laser head is highlighted for its power, which allows it to cut through materials in one pass most of the time, unlike lower wattage lasers that may require multiple passes.

What safety features does the Creality Falcon 2 have according to the review?

The Creality Falcon 2 has a tilt mechanism that shuts the machine down if it starts to fall off the table, preventing damage to the wall or other surfaces.

What is the role of the air pump connected to the laser in the Creality Falcon 2?

The air pump connected to the laser blows smoke and debris away from the cut area to keep the lens of the machine clean, which is essential for a good cut quality.

What assembly process does Joe P describe in the video?

Joe P describes the assembly of the Creality Falcon 2, including attaching the legs, connecting the air pump and power cords, and securing the laser head to the gantry.

What software does Joe P mention for creating designs for the laser engraver?

Joe P mentions LightBurn software, which he used to create designs for the laser engraver, and he notes that it offers a 30-day free trial.

What is the significance of the 'frame' feature in the software used with the Creality Falcon 2?

The 'frame' feature in the software is used to define the exact area where the laser will cut or engrave. It's important to use this feature before initiating the burn to ensure the design is correctly positioned.

What are some of the materials the Creality Falcon 2 can engrave or cut according to the video?

The Creality Falcon 2 can engrave or cut materials such as plywood, basswood, and it can also mark or engrave metal, although it requires specific settings and a metal engraving spray.