When engraving on slate with a laser, proper settings are crucial to achieve clear, detailed results without damaging the material. Here are recommended laser settings:

• Power: Set the power between 25% to 50% depending on your laser’s wattage. Higher power is generally needed for deeper engravings, while lower power is effective for lighter surface marks.
• Speed: A speed setting of 300 to 500 mm/s is ideal for slate. Slower speeds may cause excessive heat buildup, which can lead to burns or chipping.
• Frequency: For a CO2 laser, a frequency of around 500 Hz is typically effective. Adjust this based on the engraver’s response to the material.
• Passes: Depending on the depth of the engraving you desire, 1 to 2 passes may be sufficient. More than two passes can increase the risk of surface damage.
• Focus: Ensure that the laser is properly focused on the slate surface for the best results.

Always do a test engrave on a scrap piece of slate to fine-tune your settings before starting your final project.