Determining the right laser settings for engraving slate involves a few key steps to achieve optimal results. First, you need to know the specifications of your laser engraver, including wattage and type of laser (CO2 or fiber). Begin by selecting the appropriate engraving speed and power settings. A commonly used starting point for CO2 lasers is around 20-30% power with a speed of 300-600 mm/s. This varies based on the thickness and texture of the slate.

Next, perform a test engraving on a scrap piece of slate to evaluate the results. Inspect for clarity, depth, and detail. If the engraving is too shallow, increase the power or slow down the speed; if it’s burning or too deep, reduce the power or increase the speed. Adjusting the DPI (dots per inch) can also enhance the engraving quality—higher DPI results in finer detail.

Lastly, consider the lens focus. Ensure the laser beam is well-focused on the slate surface to achieve the best results. Document your successful settings for future reference and continue experimenting for different designs and effects.