Longer Ray 5 Laser Air Assist Add On In Detail

[@dcrom7527]

I just ordered a Longer Ray5 10W with the air assist and honeycomb mat. As a total newbie, I am trying to watch as many “how to” videos as I can prior to its arrival. Thank you for such a detailed, easy to follow video - it is now saved and I’m certain I will be watching it again when my laser arrives!

[@TheFalconJetDriver]

My air assist just arrived for my Longer Ray5 10 watt laser. I made a screen shot of you 3 d printed wire management device. I cut it out of 1/4 Baltic Birch plywood the screw hole where cut perfectly at 125 thousandth. This is a very impressive diode laser. Thank you making the video!😁🛫

[@RomoTravel]

I ordered a Longer Ray5 10W with the air assist and honeycomb mat while watching you install the air assist. I'm looking forward to adding this equipment to my graphic shop. In the past my customers would ask me if I also did engraving, well I can now tell them that do. Thanks for the video, I enjoyed watching and I am now also subscribed.

[@Labyrnthdom]

Thank God i found this video. I ordered the air assist for my ray5. And have not even looked to see if it has instructions yet. So im saving this video just incase it doesnt.

[@gregjerauld5787]

Just got my 10w longer 4 days ago been playing with it and learning. Enjoy your videos Roger. Now I need to get that honeycomb and air assist.

[@ThroughTheCamerasEye]

Thank you for this! I just added my new Air Assist onto my Ray5 10W Longer Laser Engraver. So glad I found this channel!

[@KsJoeLang]

Thanks for your time and effort making this video. When I received the Longer air assist, I was surprised there were no instructions. This video helped me take the guess work out of what needed to be done.

[@gl7038]

Thank you for the video I bought the laser last summer and didn’t use it yet. I just purchased the air pump assist today I can’t wait to try it.

[@normski4ash]

Deffo worth a thumbs up ! Toying with the idea of getting a laser, but there are so many to choose from, gonna have to go to your channel now and look further, expect a few more thumbs up today...

[@cmdr_stretchedguy]

I've seen multiple people say they bought a fish tank air pump that looks almost the same for 20% of the price, and even after buying the other pieces and running it into the acrylic cover, they spent less than half the price.

[@rogersshop]

Yes, and I have done the same. A quality aquarium pump will also work.

[@jamesclaeys3192]

I just acquired (3/6/23) a LONGER Ray5 and in part because of your unbiased review, I included the air-assist upgrade in my order. Unfortunately, Longer appears to have changed the design of their laser such that the air-assist is no longer compatible but with the laser head and there is no such information on their website. There are no threads in the laser head to accept the air-assist nozzle. I have attempted to contact LONGER but have not gotten a response after nearly a week.

[@rogersshop]

What model did you get? The 20W has a nozzle and port built in.

[@atbien21]

Thank you for an excellent video. I've got the same pump to install tomorrow. They must have paid attention to your video; mine has an inline switch on the cord.

[@Steve-Kratz]

I just got my Air Assist kit - it came a little different. The pump side has a brass tube to hook up the hose to, and then there's a threaded connector similar to what yours has (with the blue retention ring). No clue where that's supposed to go.

[@rogersshop]

Many air assist kits come with "extra parts" to make them more universal to different laser heads.

[@MrPDawes]

Thanks Roger, Just what I was looking for and saved me some time working it out with greater reassurance I was doing it right. Very easy to follow thanks.

[@dennybaker6264]

I was wondering if you need the air system to keep the lens clean I don't have a diet laser but CO2 and you need to run the air assist to keep the lens from getting dirty and breaking I was wondering if it is necessary for diode lasers if the lens gets dirty and breaks like a CO2 does? I would be using it mainly for cups so not too worried about Scorch marks on wood just want a laser to do cups

[@rogersshop]

I ALWAYS use air assist, even if throttled down to keep lens clean. If using "shop air" from an air compressor, use an air dryer. If any moisture hits the lens, it will break. A dirty lens is liable to break or fracture, even with dry air. The air assist at low volume for non-cutting operations will help to keep it clean.

[@jeffheidemann2656]

Thanks for the video. I recently ordered your mounts and riser which were exactly what I was looking for to secure my laser and raise it for a rotary. Do you have an air assist pump that you would recommend or is the Longer air assist the best option for a Longer Ray5 10w laser?

[@rogersshop]

The longer pump is OK, but I use this one on most of my lasers unless connected to shop air: amzn.to/3T5GAdM Variable output that is easily adjusted and higher volume. Also quiet!

[@Black23277]

Pls tell me Which programs or sites should I use to cut out the finished ones?

[@rogersshop]

I use Lightburn.

[@walker614jw]

When cutting zip ties you can just touch the sharp edge with a SMALL butane torch to melt it smooth.

[@rogersshop]

Normally, I use my Ty-Rap gun to cut these off, but it was out in my truck and raining, so just opted to cut them off. You can also twist the tag end off and it will not leave a sharp edge.

[@1987gnXtreme]

Get a set of "flush trim" cutters. That way when you cut the end of the tie off, there is no sharp point left behind.

[@timothycollins2989]

Just received my air pump and it came with an on/off switch installed.

[@cezaryl4291]

Operator great of this laser.

[@JeffLarkin]

I see they have a kit that doesn't include the pump. Would a regular aquarium pump work for this too?

[@rogersshop]

Yes, if powerful enough.

[@Tessytess-vq4kt]

what is blue wire holder called and do have a link to it

[@rogersshop]

moonshinecrafts.com/product/generic-laser-x-axis-cable-support-loop/

[@robbie3099]

Thanks alot, wish you would say how long it take for each project.

[@rogersshop]

I generally do not give a time since it will take me longer to do a project since I am also operating and moving cameras around. I also get interrupted a LOT!

[@mikebateman512]

Hi Rodger I am looking to purchace a Longer Ray5 20W machine and was wondering if you have cut 12mm MDF board and if so what were your settings, thanks for your help

[@rogersshop]

MDF can be tricky since not all MDF is the same. It depends on the composition and it makes a LOT of smoke! I have done it with 20W and 30W lasers, but tests need to be run on the piece to cut since composition varies from manufacturer and sometimes from batch to batch. Air assist is a must as well as a honeycomb board underneath.

[@SunePedersen88]

How tight should you screw the new nozzle in? I can for some reason (no matter the starting point of the thread only get it to be slightly tight (it would get loose if I touched it with a finger) when in one of the sideway directions. Only really tight direction is backwards, but that is not really optimal as you explained in the video.

[@rogersshop]

If it does not tighten in the right place, try a bit of teflon tape on the threads or blue Loctite (Don't use red!)

[@dianahegseth6279]

I learn so much from your tutorials. You do a great job explaining how things work. A while back I asked if you might do a tutorial on using a rotary roller with the Longer Ray, I think it would be helpful for all us newbees. I did purchase one back when I purchased my laser, do you know if they sell longer legs or do I just rig something up to raise the laser? I'm going to go back and check out all your tutorials.👍

[@rogersshop]

I have a rotary for my Ortur Laser Master Pro and another (the RA2) for one of my Xtool D1 lasers. I've not done any videos yet on using them, other than assembly. When I get time (!), I want to design 3d printed riser blocks for this laser. Using a rotary has a bit of a learning curve.

[@dianahegseth6279]

@@rogersshop When you do come up with the riser blocks for this laser I would like to purchase from you. Thanks Roger!

[@dianahegseth6279]

@@rogersshop I will go check it out. thanks

[@dennybaker6264]

Are you able to hook up a rotary to the laser never seen one hooked up before and also wondering how forgiving the focal length is some Cups have dips in them and I like the do full wraps on them, wondering if it's possible?

[@Big__R]

Roger do you know if you can engrave round water bottles with this one?

[@rogersshop]

assuming you have a rotary attachment and the bottles are compatible for diode laser engraving, then yes.

[@brettkowalewski9535]

Hello! I was wondering if the Ray5 cutting area is expandable? Can seem to find any info on it. Thanks!

[@rogersshop]

From some research, it does not appear that Longer offers an extension kit. This could be done on your own if you are savvy enough, but would be a project! I have two large format lasers. One is an Aufero, extended on the Y axis. The other is a ZBAITU, extended on the X axis (which is a little iffy). If you decide to DIY, I suggest extending on the Y and not the X unless going with 2030 extrusions. I am not associated with, or sponsored by Longer, but do like their products and service.

[@cindymiller1804]

Roger are the brackets that you use on the Longer to hold the tubing on thingiverse for the 3D printer? I just got my Air Assist yesterday and my husband is 3D printing risers for it. I would like to have something to lift the tubing as well.

[@rogersshop]

Yes, both brackets are on Thingiverse, but neither is specific to this laser. The bracket that mounts on the laser is pretty much universal and there are several designs on Thingiverse. The bracket on the end of the X gantry is actually for an Ortur laser, but was modified to fit the Longer.

[@GwynKokinda]

Hello Roger. Thank you for all of your wonderful video's. I'm new to all of this. I have the Longer Laser 5 and use GRBL. How do you find the "center" point of the piece you want to engrave? Thank you for your time.

[@rogersshop]

I have a layout grid on my spoilboard that allows me to position the laser head dead center (when using "current position setting")

[@GwynKokinda]

@@rogersshop thank you Roger. I'll see if I can figure that out. I'm new to all of this.

[@cezaryl4291]

where to find your best set up for this longer , did u made other videos?

[@rogersshop]

There are several videos on my channel of this laser, including projects made and modifications over time.

[@cezaryl4291]

@rogersshop thanks)

[@jonhall1558]

Thanks Roger. I've ordered a 5W Ray5 and was wondering if the air assist will work on that machine. My Granddaughter seems interested and I would like to encourage her. She did some of this in high school. Did you do the upgrade on 5 or 10w laser. thanks and I will be watching your videos!!!

[@rogersshop]

Yes. I've done both the 10 watt and 20 watt upgrades.

[@jonhall1558]

thanks for your reply Roger, my question was about the 5W version thanks in advance jon

[@rogersshop]

@@jonhall1558 If the kit is from Longer, it should fit.

[@DreamstoRealityAutomotiveTV]

I saw your video about not cutting vinyl records or vinyl in general With the air assist and proper ventilation, is it “safer” to cut vinyl?

[@rogersshop]

Not really. The Chlorine gas that is released will corrode all metal laser parts.

[@DreamstoRealityAutomotiveTV]

@@rogersshop after one project? I’m not going to do this daily. Just trying to learn, your channel helps! Thanks

[@rogersshop]

@@DreamstoRealityAutomotiveTV From a liability aspect, cannot endorse cutting vinyl on a laser...........

[@DreamstoRealityAutomotiveTV]

@@rogersshop haha, that’s a great answer/non-answer. So I “may” or “may not” take my chances.

[@eugenspiegel]

angelo cabras 22 minuti fa Hi Roger... first of all I want to congratulate you for your beautiful videos and your precious explanations. Another reason why I follow you because I too have a 5watt ray 5 laser engraver. In the end I bought the same air pump for this laser machine. But after I disassembled the laser. I had an unpleasant surprise. The laser seat is not compatible with the air assistant nozzle. It does not have the proper seat to insert the air assistant nozzle. So I can't install it. Can you give me some valuable advice on how to solve my problem? I am writing to you from Sardinia, an island in the Mediterranean. Unfortunately I don't know how to attach detailed photos of the air pump nozzle. On the comments of you tube, so you better understand my problem. If you can send them to your airmail. I look forward to your response ... see you soon Roger.

[@rogersshop]

This video was installing on the 10 watt module. Send me pictures of yours to [e-mail] and I will see if I can figure something out.

[@UrbanNinjaFu]

Any chance I can buy both of thoses brackets you made or get the files so I can make them?

[@rogersshop]

moonshinecrafts.com/product-category/laser-mounts-accessories/

[@UrbanNinjaFu]

@@rogersshop sweet I just ordered them!

[@opiespage]

@@rogersshop Is it possible to get the .stl files? I can see several mods I'd like to try, such as adding a tube guide to the support loop, so that ties are not required.

[@rogersshop]

@@opiespage email to [e-mail] with specifics.

[@primate2744]

I'm new to laser cutters. Just got the Ray5 10W but have yet to test it out. I am very experienced with 3D printers and also have 2 CNC routers and have experience with modeling in solidworks. All that being said, I have an air compressor as well as air lines from when I set up the air on my CNC router. Am I missing something or couldn't I just fab up a mounting bracket and run air from my compressor or is there more to it in concept and execution?

[@rogersshop]

Yes you could, as I could have, also. Air pressure will need to be reduced. This was easier and makes it much more portable since I need to move things around constantly.

[@primate2744]

@@rogersshop great! Thanks for your reply. I do understand portability for sure.

[@benwoods9649]

Great Video! Two quick questions. Can the 10 watt laser cut paper backed polytstyrene foam board (FTest foam board)? Have you tested the roller engraver tool?

[@rogersshop]

Polystyrene will melt and stink, giving off harmful fumes, so not recommended. I have other rotary attachments (Ortur and xTool) that I use on other lasers. I have not put on on the Longer since I already have them setup on others.

[@bkhworth]

Thanks Roger! I Just recently bought a Longer Ray 5 engraver so your videos have helped. I purchased some of the risers you made, any chance you would be selling that wire routing attachment you made for yourself?

[@rogersshop]

Available here: moonshinecrafts.com/product/generic-laser-x-axis-cable-support-loop/ I see the order for the risers and it will take a day to print a set, so if you order the cable loop, I will refund the postage on it and ship with the risers.

[@bkhworth]

@@rogersshop awesome! I was checking out the photos on that one and I’m not sure if I just have a newer model but I only have one empty hole where yours is mounted. Did you drill an extra mounting home for the wire holder?

[@rogersshop]

@@bkhworth Yes, I did add a hole.

[@c.a.g.1977]

Awesome! I thank you, sir!

[@dianahegseth6279]

Roger would you be willing to sell me those Air Line guides you made for this? If so let me know how to purchase from you. Thank you for this VERY VERY Useful tutorial - I purchased the Longer 5 10watt along with the air assist but have not assembled it yet. I also purchased the honeycomb was surprised it was as small as it is. I'm sure you have said it before but what software do you use? I was surprised when my laser came that it came with 5Watt and 10Watt along with protective goggles and a bunch of sample wood and metal to play with.

[@rogersshop]

Email me to [e-mail] and I will send you a Paypal invoice for $3.00 to get the guide. I use Lightburn 99% of the time as it has so many more features than Laser GRBL. If you need a larger honeycomb board, I did a video a while back on a home made one using a cookie sheet from Dollar Tree and some wire plaster lath. It works well, but you have to be careful to keep the lath perfectly flat when cutting it to size.

[@dianahegseth6279]

@@rogersshop Done - Thanks

[@lightzang1303]

Okay, my longer ray5 doesn't have that copper wheel thing around the lens. What is it called, and where do I get it?

[@rogersshop]

Not all models have that brass lens.

[@lightzang1303]

@@rogersshop oh so, if I want something like that, I'd have to buy a new laser that comes with it?

[@rogersshop]

Not necessarily. There are several types of air assist add on kits available for different styles of laser heads.@@lightzang1303

[@lightzang1303]

@rogersshop Thank for your help! I did get the Naccolly Air Assist Pump, and it comes with a few attachments that are compatible with 5w, 10w, and 20w lasers. Just need to replace my Eyewear and I'm ready to go!

[@psyfusion]

Nice walk through 👍

[@ljgault]

Roger, I'm assuming your go to laser is the Longer Ray 5 going by your video's. I'm looking to buy a 10 watt laser but it's really hard to pick one. I've watched lots of review video's of several model's. What is you unbiased opinion on the best laser in 10 watt range . I'm mainly interested in engraving but cutting a little is a possibility. Thanks for the review on the air pump.

[@rogersshop]

My go-to lasers, for most projects are the Longer Ray5, Ortur Laser Master Pro, xTool D1, and Atomstack A9. I was recntly sent a Comrow by Comgrow and it works well, but I have not had the time to really put it through the paces. It's also had to say! The Longer has proven to be very accurate with minimal issues. Just keep the flame sensor out of the sun! Video coming up on that........

[@gregj2647]

I’m new to the laser world so I’m looking for some advice. I have an aquarium pump designed for a 100 gallon tank. Do you think that pumps enough air for an air assist? Thanks

[@rogersshop]

Possibly. You will need to find the specs on it (or, just try it out). On some of my other lasers, I use an aquarium pump (large Pawfly brand) and they work just fine.

[@gregj2647]

@@rogersshop thanks for your reply. I did hook it up but being a newbie I’m not sure it’s enough. According to Tetra, it’s output is rated at 3.3L They don’t give a CFM rating.

[@rogersshop]

@@gregj2647 You don't need a "jet" of air pressure, just enough to clear the soot/ash out of the laser beam path.

[@davey3765]

FYI I have the longer RAY5 10w and it makes perfect clean cuts at 321mm/min 78% pwr for 3mm wood. I try and avoid using 100% for anything but quick engravings or whatever I heard it was stressfull on the laser. Engraving my sweet spot (@ 10w) is 3000 mm/min 28% pwr. The KEY here so you dont overburn is double clicking on the parts your FILLING (NOT cutting) and making sure to use only 180 LPI (lines per inch). Ive tested higher resolution 200,280++ etc... Its TOO much resolution for wood (unless your intention is to do deep engravings), itll just over burn and lose detail. 180 is the sweet spot when viewing 8" away or more. One benefit is it takes les time to print too. When etching rocks (I coat them in cheap corn oil before burning) about 150LPI is enough - you cant resolve more resolution from the medium. After etching I wash the rocks to get the oil off and it looks clean.

[@thejameslealartco.7625]

Do you know if they have plans for rotary addition?

[@rogersshop]

Don't know. However, just about any rotary will work. The Ortur rotary and the xTool RA2 would both work on this.

[@thejameslealartco.7625]

@@rogersshop oh very cool ty!

[@thejameslealartco.7625]

Any chance you’d do video on that or is it just brain dead simple to do? Sorry super new to lasers. Literally bought a longer based on yours and a couple other videos

[@rogersshop]

@@thejameslealartco.7625 I've done assembly videos on both in the past. It is an idea to do one dedicated to a different brand laser, and I have put that on my list for later this fall. This time of year, we get swamped with orders for bee hive candy boards and that has me VERY busy in addition to the other "sponsored" videos I need to do.

[@soundtherapymbsmindbodysou9869]

I need big help. I have a question. Can someone assist me?

[@rogersshop]

What is the question?

[@russellfay6771]

I really wanted to see this video, but the ads just keep coming and coming! Too bad. KZbin's greed has gotten overwhelming! They're getting paid to show these ads, and if I don't want to see them, I have to pay as well. So I guess I'll just have to miss this video, sorry!