Frequently Asked Questions

The electrolyte solution should typically be replaced during annual maintenance. However, if the torch develops flame or pressure issues, the electrolyte solution should be replaced sooner.

Distilled water is recommended for use with most hydrogen torches because it is free of contaminants that could affect flame quality or the overall performance of the torch.

There are several possible causes for a torch extinguishing during use. A clogged or sticking check valve that restricts gas flow, old or contaminated electrolyte solution, faulty O-ring or gasket seals, flame arrestor issues, or mineral buildup in the electrolyte tank and hoses can all lead to an inconsistent flame or sudden flame loss.

A weak or unstable flame can be caused by several issues, including old or contaminated electrolyte solution, a partially blocked or sticking check valve, mineral buildup in the electrolyte tank or lines, low electrolyte levels, or low or contaminated flux in the booster tank.

Ignition failure in a hydrogen torch can be caused by several factors, including a lack of pressure or loss of pressure within the system, old or contaminated electrolyte solution, a blocked check valve, a restricted torch tip or gas line, or issues with the booster tank or flux.

Incomplete castings can result from several factors. The most common causes include:
- Insufficient metal being poured into the mold
- Improper sprueing or inadequate support for metal flow
- Metal flowing too slowly into the mold cavity
- Metal temperatures that are too low
- Mold temperatures that are too low
- In some cases, excessively high metal temperatures can also contribute to casting defects

Carefully reviewing metal quantity, sprue design, casting temperatures, and mold temperatures can help identify the source of the problem.

Sparks, spatter, and porosity can have several causes. First, make sure the metal is clean and free of oil, polishing compound, moisture, and solder residue.

Other possible causes include:
- Too much energy. Try reducing power, increasing spot size, or adjusting pulse duration.
- Incorrect focus. Make sure the piece is positioned correctly at the focal point.
- Dirty or damaged optics. Check the protective glass and focusing lens.
- Insufficient shielding gas. If using argon gas, check the tank, regulator, flow settings, and nozzle position.

A black or discolored weld is usually caused by oxidation, contamination, or excessive heat. Try reducing the power, pulse duration, or frequency if you're overheating the metal. Also make sure the piece is clean and free of oil, polishing compounds, dirt, and solder residue. Some metals — including sterling silver, certain white gold alloys, and bronze or brass alloys — are more prone to discoloration during welding.

The water in your laser welder’s cooling system should be completely replaced once a year. It’s also a good idea to check the water level monthly and top it off as needed.

Several things can prevent a laser engraver from marking metal correctly. First, make sure the laser is properly focused, the lens protector is removed, and the emergency stop is released.

If those aren't the issue, check that you're using the correct settings and laser source for the material. Highly reflective materials can also be difficult to engrave. If the problem persists, your software or hardware may need an update.

Light or uneven markings are often caused by improper focus, uneven surfaces, or incorrect settings.

Make sure the laser is properly focused on the surface you're engraving. If the piece has an uneven surface, portions of the design may fall outside the laser's focal range. You may also need to adjust your settings or increase the laser's power to achieve the desired marking depth.

Blurry or fuzzy text may be related to outdated software or hardware. Check for available software and hardware updates. If the issue continues, the machine may need further inspection or calibration

Misaligned designs may indicate that your laser engraver is out of calibration. Perform a calibration test to correct the alignment and ensure the design is being positioned accurately.

The red light is used to indicate the laser's focal point. On many machines, two red dots should overlap when the laser is at the correct engraving height.

If you see two separate dots, the laser is out of focus. Adjust the height of the workpiece until the dots overlap, then try engraving again.

Cleaning frequency depends on how often you use the engraver and whether you’re performing cutting or deep engraving. As a general rule, clean the lens every 1–2 weeks.

Clean it more frequently if you notice a loss of power or significant debris on the cleaning cloth.

A gradual loss of power can occur as the laser source ages, particularly with fiber laser engravers. In some cases, the laser source can be refurbished by the manufacturer, although this can be a significant repair.

Before assuming the laser source needs replacement or refurbishment, check the optics. Dirty lenses can block laser energy and cause a noticeable loss of power.

If cleaning the optics doesn't resolve the issue, consult a qualified repair technician to determine the cause and available repair options.

Regular maintenance helps keep your laser engraver performing properly. Recommended maintenance includes:

- Clean the lens: After deep engraving or at least once a week.
- Clean filters and housing: Use compressed air as needed to remove dust and debris.
- Replace the dust collector bag: As needed, based on usage.
- Calibrate the machine: Perform an alignment calibration monthly.
- Check for updates: Check for software and hardware updates monthly.

Following a regular maintenance schedule can help maintain engraving quality, prevent performance issues and extend the life of your equipment.

Routine Maintenance:
The biggest enemy of casting equipment is investment dust and debris. Regularly clean investment residue from the casting chamber, remove metal splatter and oxide buildup, wipe vacuum chamber seals and flask gaskets, and ensure that all vacuum ports are clear. Inspect the vacuum pump oil level and condition, verify that the machine is reaching its normal vacuum levels, and replace the oil whenever it becomes dark, cloudy, or milky.

Quarterly to Semi-Annual Maintenance:
Calibrate temperature measurement systems, if applicable, and inspect thermocouples for signs of degradation. Check heating elements and electrical components for wear or damage. If vacuum performance has decreased, inspect the vacuum pump vanes and internal pump components. On centrifugal casting machines, examine motor bearings and drive components for wear.

Investment dust, debris, metal splatter, and oxide buildup should be cleaned daily or after each casting session.

Preventive maintenance should be performed every few weeks to every few months, depending on machine usage. During these inspections, check gaskets, seals, vacuum connections, and hoses, and replace or change vacuum pump oil as needed.

The location of the porosity can often help identify the cause:
Near the sprue: Shrinkage porosity
In thick sections: Feeding problems
Throughout the casting: Gas porosity
Just below the surface: Gas absorption or overheating
At sharp corners: Poor metal flow
Random rough pits: Investment breakdown

If your machine is not achieving a proper vacuum, check for vacuum leaks, cracked or brittle hoses, loose hose clamps or fittings, damaged O-rings, and torn silicone flask gaskets. Inspect all flask and chamber seals, check the condition and level of the vacuum pump oil, and examine filters and intake lines for restrictions or blockages.

Weak welds can be caused by dirty or damaged optics, poor alignment, or worn electrical components. Start by checking and cleaning the protective lens, then perform a black paper test to check the laser’s output and alignment. If the issue continues, the flashlamp, electrodes, or other components may need inspection.

Regular maintenance can help prevent power loss. Coolant and water filters should also be replaced annually.

If your laser welder won’t fire, check these common causes.

1. Make sure the machine is fully powered on and in ready mode.

2. Check that the emergency stop button is released.

3. Look for any error messages or interlock warnings on the display.

4. Make sure the safety shutter is open.

5. Check that the pulse frequency (Hz) isn’t set to zero.

6. If your machine uses argon gas, check the gas tank, regulator, and flow settings.

7. Make sure all doors and access panels are fully closed.

8. Confirm that the foot pedal is properly connected.

We recommend you provide as much detail as possible so our technicians are best prepared to assist. This can include any on-screen indicators you are seeing, changes in your normal operating experience, and changes in the final result of your work.

Yes. B&D specializes in maintenance and repair services for laser welders, laser engravers, casting systems, and hydrogen torches.

Yes. Whether purchased from B&D or through another vendor, we service equipment by the following brands: Orotig, Coherent®-Rofin, Siro Lasertec, LaserStar Technologies, Best Built, BN Laser®, and Elma.