Hey, just thought of something: CDs engraving and cutting

[marmak3261]

From the archives.

Can the Glowforge cut a CD?

So we’ve just moved house and going through the boxes I’ve found a ton of old home-burned CDs that I was about to throw out. Then I began to wonder if the Glowforge could safely cut a CD, because the shiny side is cool and could make interesting jewelry or other decorative objects. But, if I remember correctly, a CD’s surface is meant to reflect a laser beam, that’s how CDs work, right? So, y’know, I don’t fancy just sticking one in my brand spanking new Glowforge to try, if it’s going to bounce…

Cd jewel case material engraving and cutting

Continuing the discussion from What are the most unique materials you plan to use?: We have had a good discussion on the CDs themselves. What about the cases? A cheap source of material. It is polystyrene. What I note is that it burns being a hydrocarbon and leaves CO2 and water and soot. Flammable too. Anyone with laser experience use these? Edit for clicking help: Here’s the link to take you to vimeo and all the other videos in his series “Can You Etch It”.