Which is better for laser engraving – servos vs. steppers?
Stepper motors provide consistent accuracy and repeatability onULS systems. Steppers do not require an encoder (and the extra wiring and boards that go along with them- not to mention the added failures that go with more electronics), and they have a positive stop. Steppers also have less complexity and very high resolution capability, as much as 8000 – 16000 steps per inch, and steppers provide no more than 8 lbs. force for safety. Servo technology is primarily used for moving heavy loads at a high rate of speed. The ULS is designed to carry a beam of light, not a large, heavy overweight arm. And physics allows us to go only so fast when laser engraving. Engraving and cutting speed is material and graphic dependent. Virtually all 30 watt lasers power setting manuals will recommend a power of 100, and only a speed of 30% or less for wood. And, you will find servo owners replacing their motors far more often than micro steppers due to the extreme starting and stopping of laser engraving
