This month saw the welcome return of Andy Conolly who talked to us about 3D printing last September.  He started with a brief history of lasers (starting from Einstein’s publication of the fundamental idea behind the technology in 1917) and then described the various types of laser cutter (CO2, Fibre, Diode and the most recent, UV).  

Andy has four laser cutters in his workshop and he brought a UV laser to give a live demonstration of the apparatus and the software.  This type has the benefit of not causing burning so can be used on a wide range of materials (including glass).  As in Andy’s previous talk, we were able to handle a selection of the items that he had made and he ended with three quiz questions (with prizes) and a keyring for each of us.  Another very entertaining and informative presentation.