This page describes a laser engraving setting published for MDF at 2 mm, tested on a Cloudray CR60 CO2 fitted with a CO2 60W source (10,600 nm CO2, 60 W). It states the exact machine, source, material, thickness and operation of the test; power, speed and number of passes are shown with a Premium pass.
Why those four facts matter: a engraving setting that works on MDF at 2 mm does not transfer to another thickness, nor to another source. A 10,600 nm CO2 rated 60 W does not deposit the same energy as a stronger module, and the speed has to be adjusted accordingly. Copying a number without checking those four points is the first cause of a ruined part.
Published by LaserSettings (estimation). No other workshop has confirmed it yet: treat it as a starting point, and confirm it from your account if you reproduce it.
No photo comes with this setting yet. If you reproduce it, publish yours from your account: a picture of the result is worth more than a line of numbers.
Recommended routine before running the part: clean the lens, redo the focus, engrave a small test grid on an offcut of the same MDF, then adjust the speed rather than the power. Work with fume extraction and air assist, wear glasses rated for 10,600 nm CO2, and never leave the machine unattended.
Cloudray is primarily a component supplier (fibre sources, galvos, tubes, optics) and sells markers built around those parts. Two machines with the same name can carry different sources, so the useful setting always belongs to the source, not the cabinet.
MDF is homogeneous, cheap and perfectly flat: ideal for jigs, models and anything that will be painted. In exchange, it is the material that dirties a machine the most and demands the best extraction.
MDF is denser than plywood: at the same thickness expect roughly 20 % more power, or a lower speed. Its consistency is a huge advantage: a setting that works on one board works on the next, which is never guaranteed with solid wood.
The edge always comes out dark brown, almost black. That is inherent to the glue: do not try to avoid it by slowing down, you will only widen the burnt zone. Plan a finish instead.
When engraving, MDF gives strong contrast from 20 % power, but it digs in quickly: for a wide fill, several light passes beat one heavy pass.
This is the part not to skip: MDF releases a lot of resin-laden smoke and fine particles. Without effective extraction the workshop becomes unbreathable and lenses fog within tens of minutes, quietly sapping usable power.
Clean the lens and mirror more often than with other materials, and empty the tray: MDF debris is fine, dry and ignites easily.
Avoid moisture-resistant MDF (the green board): its treatment gives off extra fumes and the cut becomes irregular.