Glossary · Accessories
Fume extraction (laser)
A fan with a hose that draws the smoke out of the machine during lasering, to the outside or through a filter. Without extraction, smoke and harmful substances end up in the room air.
Explained in more detail
Laser work produces smoke, fine dust, odours and, depending on the material, harmful gases. Fume extraction pulls these out of the enclosure or housing, either through an exhaust hose to the outside or through a filter unit. Filter units usually work in several stages, with a pre-filter, a HEPA filter for fine dust and activated carbon for gases and odours. For hobby devices, exhaust fans of around 200 to 500 m³/h are common, and a slight negative pressure in the enclosure is important. Activated carbon becomes saturated and must be replaced regularly, especially with wood containing a lot of resin or glue.
Where does the term come from?
Fume extraction means removing smoke and fumes by negative pressure.
In practice
- The route to the outside is the most effective: short, smooth hoses, few kinks and a window or wall opening.
- For open machines, an enclosure helps; otherwise the fan only extracts part of the smoke.
- If the room still smells strongly after lasering, the extraction is too weak or the activated carbon is used up.
- No extraction makes PVC, vinyl or PVC faux leather safe. You do not laser these materials at all.
Not to be confused
Fume extraction and air assist are two different things. Air assist blows air onto the cutting point, while the extraction removes the smoke from the machine and the room.
Frequently asked questions
Can I run a laser in my flat without extraction?
This is not advisable, as smoke and fine dust spread through the room. Use an exhaust hose to the outside or a filter unit with HEPA and activated carbon.
How strong does laser fume extraction need to be?
For hobby devices, about 200 to 500 m³/h is common. What matters is that there is visible negative pressure in the enclosure and no smoke escapes through gaps.