3 verified settings · manufacturer data · co2 glass laser · Updated January 2026
| Operation | Speed (mm/s) | Power (%) | Passes | Air Assist | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| engrave | 500 | 20% | 1 | — | Air: low; Power range: 10-20% |
| cut | 40 | 90% | 1 | ✓ | Air: high; Lens: 2"; Power range: 10-90% |
The Thunder Laser Nova/Bolt Series (80W CO2) cuts Cardboard cleanly at 40 mm/s with 90% power. Always test on a scrap piece first — every machine is slightly different, and variables like tube age, lens condition, and material batch can shift results.
For Cardboard, the key variables to dial in are speed and power. If the laser isn't cutting through cleanly, slow down or add a pass before pushing power higher — excessive power causes charring and wider kerfs. Air assist is highly recommended for wood and organic materials to clear smoke and protect the lens.
Once you find settings that work, save them in Laser Lab to build your personal settings library. The AI predictor uses your calibrated results to suggest starting points for new materials automatically — so the more you log, the smarter it gets.
For cutting Cardboard on the Thunder Laser Nova/Bolt Series (80W CO2), start at 40 mm/s speed and 90% power. These are manufacturer-verified starting points — always test on scrap first.
Yes — air assist is recommended when cutting Cardboard on the Thunder Laser Nova/Bolt Series (80W CO2). It clears smoke from the cut path, reduces charring, and protects your lens from debris.
The manufacturer recommends 1 pass to cut through Cardboard at 40 mm/s and 90% power. If the cut isn't clean, try reducing speed slightly before adding more passes.
Incomplete cuts are usually caused by incorrect power, speed, or focus distance. If edges are charred, try increasing speed or reducing power. If the laser isn't cutting through, reduce speed or increase power — or add an extra pass. Also verify your focal distance is correct for the material thickness and that your lens is clean.
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