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Operations

Operations define how Rayforge processes your designs. Each operation type converts vector paths or raster images into toolpaths optimized for specific laser tasks.

Operation Workflow

graph TB
    A[Select Objects] --> B{Choose Operation}
    B --> C[Contour]
    B --> D[Raster]
    B --> E[Depth]
    B --> F[Shrink Wrap]

    C --> G[Configure Settings<br/>Power, Speed, Passes]
    D --> G
    E --> G
    F --> G

    G --> H[Preview 3D Toolpath]
    H --> I{Looks Good?}
    I -->|No| G
    I -->|Yes| J[Generate G-code]

    style C fill:#e3f2fd
    style D fill:#fff3e0
    style E fill:#f3e5f5
    style F fill:#e8f5e9
    style J fill:#c8e6c9

Operation Types

Rayforge supports four main operation types:

Contour Cutting

Cut along the outline of shapes and paths.

Best For:

  • Cutting out shapes and profiles
  • Through-cutting materials
  • Creating precise outlines
  • Die-cutting and stencils

Key Features:

  • Multi-pass cutting for thick materials
  • Kerf compensation for dimensional accuracy
  • Holding tabs to keep pieces in place
  • Lead-in/lead-out for smooth starts and stops

Raster Engraving

Fill areas with back-and-forth engraving lines (bi-directional scanning).

Best For:

  • Engraving photos and images
  • Filling large areas
  • Wood and leather engraving
  • Creating textures and patterns

Key Features:

  • Overscan to eliminate endpoint burn marks
  • Cross-hatch fill for consistent coverage
  • Variable power based on image brightness
  • Line interval (spacing) control

Depth Engraving

Create 3D relief effects by varying power based on image brightness.

Best For:

  • 3D effects on acrylic or coated metals
  • Grayscale photo engraving with depth
  • Embossing effects
  • Relief sculptures

Key Features:

  • Depth mapping from image brightness
  • Configurable min/max depth
  • Smooth gradients
  • Compatible with grayscale images

Shrink Wrap

Create efficient cutting paths around multiple objects.

Best For:

  • Cutting around grouped objects
  • Waste reduction
  • Efficient material usage
  • Quick outline cuts

Key Features:

  • Automatic hull calculation
  • Configurable offset distance
  • Combines multiple objects into single path

Operation Workflow

1. Select Objects

Select one or more objects on the canvas that you want to apply the operation to.

2. Add Operation

  • Menu: Operations → Add Operation
  • Keyboard: Ctrl+Shift+A
  • Context menu: Right-click → Add Operation

3. Configure Settings

Each operation type has specific settings:

  • Power: Laser power percentage (0-100%)
  • Speed: Movement speed (mm/min)
  • Passes: Number of times to repeat the operation
  • Advanced options: Varies by operation type

4. Preview

Use the 3D preview (Ctrl+3) to visualize the toolpath before sending to your machine.

5. Generate G-code

When ready, generate G-code (Ctrl+G) to create machine instructions.

Operation Settings

Common Settings

These settings are available for all operation types:

Setting Description Typical Range
Name Operation identifier Any text
Power Laser power percentage 0-100%
Speed Feed rate in mm/min 100-6000 mm/min
Passes Number of repetitions 1-10
Enabled Enable/disable operation On/Off
Layer Assign to specific layer Layer 1-10

Advanced Settings

Additional settings vary by operation type:

  • Contour: Kerf, tabs, lead-in/lead-out
  • Raster: Overscan, line interval, angle
  • Depth: Min/max depth, smoothing
  • Shrink Wrap: Offset distance, segments

Operation Order

Operations execute in the order they appear in the layers panel. Reorder operations by dragging them up or down.

Best Practice Order:

  1. Engraving operations (Raster, Depth)
  2. Scoring operations (Light contour cuts)
  3. Through-cutting operations (Contour with full power)

Why this order?

Engraving first ensures the material stays in place. Cutting last prevents pieces from moving during earlier operations.

Tips for Success

Power and Speed

Start conservative and increase gradually:

  • Too fast/low power: Incomplete cuts, light engraving
  • Too slow/high power: Charring, melted edges, fire risk

Multiple Passes

Use multiple passes for:

  • Thick materials that won't cut in one pass
  • Achieving deeper engraving
  • Better edge quality on sensitive materials

Testing

Always test on scrap material:

  1. Create a small test pattern
  2. Try different power/speed combinations
  3. Document successful settings for future jobs
  4. Keep a material library with proven settings

Explore each operation type for detailed information and examples: