I am considering purchasing an overhead Laser Projector for positionng pods and parts. We have a flat table 5 axis CNC machine and we mill narrow parts on our Nemi Pods. The table is a matrix/grid type. Typically the finished work piece after milling over hangs the pods by 1/8th” on both sides in width. I have spoken with a Laser company and asked what accuracy/tolerance and repeatability they can guarantee. At first I was told +- .014... that would be acceptable and not run the risk of a collision.. but when I asked for it in writing I was then told they would only guarantee in writing +- 1/16th". Thats too much error to risk. For 24 thousand its not worth the risk. Does anybody have any real world experience with Laser Projectors. Whose is most accurate? I think it could solve our setup process issues as nothing we make is standardized. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

I use an SL Laser on a near identical situation. They are only accurate immediately after calibration as they are typically ceiling mounted. I can tell exactly when the sun comes up in the morning or if it's cloudy/cold etc. The laser projection can shift by over an inch in a matter of 30 minutes. I have to calibrate before every part done on my version of Nemi pods but it's a HUGE blessing for parts with through holes/routes to ensure I don't hit a pod.

Personally I couldn't live without it, but I've got a lot more play than you. If .062" accuracy isn't enough, I wouldn't bother with that major a purpose, especially if you've gotten along without one up until now.

SL Laser for positioning radius mouldings. Does an outstanding job and does not have the calibration problem listed above. Perhaps the above poster needs to remount on non-heat affected framing.

Mine was on a wood framed ceiling and the CNC was on a wood framed floor. You would think this would be problematic but it never was. Just calibrated at start up every day and that did the trick.

BH Davis

I wish I could better attach my laser but I'm in an old pole building with a metal roof. In Wisconsin snow load is something I have no control over nor are the temp swings that we get. I'm also projecting over a 16' table so the laser is and has to be quite high for the angles to reach the whole table. My laser is approx. 14' above my table, best guess.

With my projection beam being near a 1/16" at part height I still don't think you'll ever get the kind of accuracy you require. Hopefully others can chime in but I couldn't use mine to that level of precision.

We do a lot of conf tables that have critical reference points, solid bands, centering sketch faces or relocating a round top after banding w/ lumber.
We have a tool holder with a fine laser light in the tool carousel. With the laser on, and 1 rpm (our machines have to have the router motor on), we run the finished tool path or dial in to location mark coordinates. We have a couple of simple programs that move the laser to marks or an edge joint. It's very accurate and cost about $125. If interested I can post the vendor.

Charles,
I'd be interested in seeing more on that laser pointer. I've done similar things but with non-precision setups.

Thanks,
BH Davis

Here is one. There are others.

Link below

Laser-Center-Edge-Finder