Architecture Library Makerspace

The laser cutter is available to School of Architecture faculty, students, and staff only. Access to the laser cutter is restricted to only those who have completed the training procedures with the Makerspace staff. 

To sign up for laser cutting training, please use this link and book a training session.

The Laser Cutter is accessible, once training is completed, during the Libray's normal business hours. Appointments are not required, it is available first come, first served. To access the room, the key must be checked out at the front desk of the Architecture Library. There is a five hour daily maximum usage of the laser cutter.

The nature of the laser cutting process requires that you undergo safety training.

General rules when using the laser cutter:

1. Complete safety training
2. Know the material you are cutting
   1. There are signs in the room for what materials are safe to use.
   2. If you don't know what material you are cutting or it's indicated as an unsafe material, DON'T cut it.
3. Exhaust fan is always to be turned on when in the room
   1. The switch is on the same wall as the room light switch.
4. Leave NO "extra" material in the room
   1. All material brought into the room should be removed. This includes off-cuts.
   2. Keep the room clean. You will be held accountable to this.
5. Watch the machine while in use
   1. Fires are EXTREMELY RARE. Flare-ups can occur frequently during cutting actions. Don't be alarmed. The forced air and exhaust fan will extinguish these as flare-ups almost as soon as they happen. The fire extinguisher is right next to the machine, if ever needed.
6. When finished:
   1. Log out of the computer
   2. Remove all material from the bed and room
   3. Shut off the exhaust fan
   4. Turn off the room light
   5. Take the key back to the Architecture Library front desk to check back in

If you encounter any issues during your process or see anything that is concerning, please contact Matt Noffsinger at mnoffsin@nd.edu

Who is able to used the laser cutter?
Two requirements: you have completed the laser cutter training and are a student, faculty, or staff member of the School of Architecture.

Where do I get the material for the laser cutter?
You can often find materials online, in various sizes, on Amazon.

What is the thickest material that I can cut?
You should not be cutting anything thicker than 1/4". Thicker than this can cause burning and beveled edges because of the nature of the laser doing the cutting.

What materials can I or can't I cut?
You can check the lists here for materials that can or cannot be used.
SAFE - CUTTING
SAFE - ETCHING
UNSAFE
These posters are on the wall as a reminder inside the laser cutter room.