TYKMA Minilase XL: First Setup & Test Burns

Published on August 2, 2026
Duration: 25:40

This guide details the initial setup and test burn process for the TYKMA Minilase XL laser system, a machine capable of detailed engraving on firearms components and Cerakote ablation. It covers uncrating, system connection, software configuration, and performing test burns on steel and Cerakote, highlighting key settings like pulse duration for precise results. The video emphasizes the system's suitability for professional gunsmiths and custom shops looking to elevate their finishing capabilities.

Quick Summary

The TYKMA Minilase XL is an industrial MOPA fiber laser system ideal for firearm customization, offering precise engraving on steel and Cerakote ablation with a 2-nanosecond pulse duration. Its Class 1 enclosure ensures safety, and adjustable settings allow for detailed work on various components.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Motivation for Laser Upgrade
  2. 00:31Meet the Team & System Selection
  3. 01:13TYKMA Minilase XL: Specs & Capabilities
  4. 01:34Working Area & Configuration Options
  5. 01:49Uncrating & Initial Setup
  6. 02:19Fume Evacuation System Setup
  7. 02:46Software Installation & Guided Setup
  8. 03:05Software Walkthrough: Building & Marking
  9. 03:52Understanding Laser Parameters: Frequency, Pulse Width, Continuous Wave
  10. 04:14Trace Function & Contour Preview
  11. 04:58First Test Burn: Steel Engraving
  12. 05:15Adjusting Settings for Cerakote Test Burn
  13. 05:51Performing Cerakote Laser Imaging Test Burn
  14. 06:05TYKMA Support & System Specs Recap
  15. 06:21Max Part Size & Enclosure Safety Features
  16. 06:53Cooling, Dust Evacuation & Industrial Design
  17. 07:12Production-Friendly System & Business Opportunity
  18. 07:45Test Burn 1: Deep Engraving on Stainless Steel
  19. 08:36Setting Focus Height & Applying Layer Settings
  20. 09:45Positioning Artwork with Trace & Bounding Box
  21. 10:19Finalizing Steel Engraving Burn
  22. 11:22Reviewing Steel Engraving Results
  23. 11:50Test Burn 2: Cerakote Laser Imaging (Ablation)
  24. 12:13Cerakote Ablation Settings & Initial Results
  25. 12:59Adjusting Power for Cerakote Ablation
  26. 13:39Successful Cerakote Ablation Results
  27. 13:78Advantages of Cerakote Laser Imaging Over Stenciling
  28. 14:13Cerakote Laser Imaging Training & Custom Solutions
  29. 14:47Conclusion & Future Videos
  30. 14:94Outro & Subscription Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key advantages of the TYKMA Minilase XL for firearm customization?

The TYKMA Minilase XL offers a high degree of precision with its short pulse duration (down to 2 nanoseconds), enabling detailed engraving on steel and effective Cerakote ablation. Its Class 1 enclosure ensures safety, and the system's industrial design supports production-friendly operations for gunsmiths and custom shops.

How does the TYKMA Minilase XL handle Cerakote laser imaging?

For Cerakote laser imaging (ablation), the Minilase XL utilizes specific settings, including a 2-nanosecond pulse width, moderate power, and adjusted speed/frequency. This allows the laser to burn through the top Cerakote layer to reveal the color beneath, creating intricate designs that are difficult with traditional methods.

What are the recommended settings for deep engraving on stainless steel with the TYKMA Minilase XL?

For deep steel engraving, settings like 10 passes, 1000 speed, 25 frequency, 100 power, and 200 pulse width are suggested as a starting point. A multi-pass approach with cross-hatching helps achieve depth and clean edges, preventing excessive melting.

What safety features are included with the TYKMA Minilase XL?

The TYKMA Minilase XL is a Class 1 laser system featuring a fully enclosed work area with green glass that blocks harmful light spectrums. It also includes a safety switch on the door, meaning the laser will not operate if the enclosure is open, eliminating the need for separate safety glasses during operation.

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