A laser engraver enclosure is essential for safety, efficiency, and maintaining a clean workspace. Enclosures help contain smoke, fumes, and dust while providing protection against accidental contact with the laser beam. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, investing in a high-quality enclosure enhances your engraving experience and ensures compliance with safety regulations.
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In this post, we’ll identify the best laser engraver enclosures and discuss why they’re an essential laser engraving accessory.
Why Do You Need a Laser Engraver Enclosure?
The laser engraver enclosure also offers some protection against fumes, gases, and various harmful particles when a laser engraver is used on certain materials.
Some laser engraver enclosures also help to dampen the noise that is created while the laser engraver is used, which can make for a more enjoyable experience for the user, as well as those working that are nearby.
The enclosure can also help reduce excess vibrations and temperature fluctuations, making it easier for the operator to work more accurately.
For safety, some laser engraver enclosures feature laser-filtered viewing windows that filter out harmful laser light from the laser head. This significantly reduces exposure, making it safer to operate and be around the engraver.
Another essential reason enclosures are so important is that they help protect the laser engraver itself. Given that a high-quality laser engraver is an expensive investment, it only makes sense to protect it.
So, not only do laser engraver enclosures help protect your laser engraver, they are incredibly useful for the safety of the operator and others, as well as the functionality of the laser engraver itself! Put simply, they are a very worthwhile investment.
Key Features to Look for in a Laser Engraver Enclosure
When choosing an enclosure, consider the following factors:
- Material Durability: Fire-resistant and heat-resistant materials like metal or acrylic are ideal.
- Ventilation System: Built-in exhaust fans or filter systems help manage smoke and fumes.
- Size Compatibility: Ensure the enclosure fits your laser engraver model.
- Ease of Assembly: Look for enclosures that are easy to set up and dismantle.
- Safety Features: Auto shutoff functions and protective covers add an extra layer of security.
How Can We Help You Find The Best Laser Engraver Enclosure?
To help you find a laser engraver enclosure that keeps you safe and enables you to work more accurately and precisely, we will highlight and review three of the best options on the market today!
So, if you’re ready to get started, let’s take a look at the top three laser engraver enclosures out there.
The Top 3 Laser Engraver Enclosure Options
Comgrow Laser Engraver Enclosure
The Comgrow Laser Engraver Enclosure is an excellent protective cover designed to enhance the safety and efficiency of laser engraving operations. With its durable build and convenient features, this enclosure is a must-have for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Great Compatibility
One of the standout features of the Comgrow Laser Engraver Enclosure is its large size. Measuring 700x700x400mm (27.5×27.5×15.7 inches), it accommodates a wide range of laser engravers, including:
- Comgrow Z1
- Ortur Laser Master 3, 2/2 Pro
- Sculpfun S9
- xTool D1/D1 Pro
- ATOMSTACK A5/A5 Pro/A5 M40/A5 M30
- Twotrees Totem 2.5/Totem 5.5/Totem S
This extensive compatibility makes it a versatile option for users with different engraver models.
Convenient Design
The enclosure includes additional cable openings on both the left and right sides, allowing for easy cable management. These openings facilitate smooth air assist connections and make overall setup more convenient. Additionally, the fume extractor’s 3-inch connector is available on both sides, letting users position the exhaust system based on their workspace layout.
Enhanced Visibility and Stability
A key feature of this enclosure is its built-in USB light, ensuring visibility during engraving, even when the zipper is fully closed. The top support pole helps maintain the enclosure’s structure, preventing collapse and ensuring a smooth workflow.
Noise and Dust Reduction
This enclosure is designed to insulate sound, reducing noise levels during laser engraving operations. Additionally, it acts as a dust cover, preventing debris from accumulating on the engraver. Cleaning is straightforward—just wipe it with a damp cloth.
Safety and Fume Control
The enclosure helps contain stray fumes, protecting both the user and the surrounding environment. It offers two sizes of the window front pipe, giving users flexibility when working with different engraver sizes and materials.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Large size accommodates various laser engravers
- Effective noise and dust reduction
- Built-in USB light for improved visibility
- Multiple cable openings for convenience
- Dual-sided fume extractor connector
- Stable structure with top support pole
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- May take up significant workspace
- Not completely airtight for fume extraction
The Comgrow Laser Engraver Enclosure is an excellent investment for laser engraving enthusiasts seeking a safer, cleaner, and more efficient workspace. Its compatibility, thoughtful design, and protective features make it one of the best enclosures available on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, this enclosure can significantly enhance your laser engraving experience.
xTool Laser Engraver Enclosure
The xTool Enclosure for Laser Engravers is a premium protective solution designed to enhance air quality, safety, and convenience for laser engraving enthusiasts. Whether you own an xTool D1/D1 Pro or another laser cutter, this enclosure provides an excellent balance of performance and protection.
Enhanced Air Quality Management
One of the standout features of the xTool Enclosure is its efficient air circulation system. By guiding airflow from intake to exhaust, it effectively minimizes exposure to smog, dust, noise, and odors. This system not only creates a cleaner workspace but also significantly improves indoor air quality, making it a healthier option for extended engraving sessions.
Robust Protection and Longevity
Built with a multi-layered design, this enclosure prioritizes durability and safety:
- PU Outer Layer: Waterproof and easy to clean, ensuring long-lasting use.
- PP Hollow Board Core: V0 flame-retardant, corrosion-resistant, and moisture-proof for enhanced protection.
- 600D Flame Retardant Polyester Inner Layer: Acts as a strong fire and smoke barrier, increasing overall safety.
Ultra Eye Protection
Equipped with a 455x250mm viewing window made of laser-light-filtering polycarbonate, this enclosure ensures both safety and visibility. Users can monitor engraving progress while being shielded from harmful laser glare, reducing eye strain during extended operations.
Optimized Storage Solution
The xTool Enclosure includes built-in storage compartments for tools and accessories. This feature enhances workspace organization, keeping essential items within reach while maintaining a clutter-free environment.
Market-Compatible Size
With dimensions of 24.6”x24”x12.2” (external) and 23.6”x23.2”x11.8” (internal), the enclosure accommodates most laser engravers, making it a versatile and widely compatible option.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Efficient air circulation reduces smog, noise, and odors
- Multi-layer flame-retardant construction for enhanced safety
- Large laser-light-filtering window for eye protection
- Built-in storage for improved organization
- Spacious design fits a variety of laser engraver models
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier compared to some compact enclosures
The xTool Enclosure is an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their laser engraving experience. With its superior air quality management, safety features, and convenient storage, this enclosure ensures a cleaner, safer, and more efficient workspace. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, the xTool Enclosure is a worthwhile investment for protecting both your equipment and your health.
Creality Laser Engraver Enclosure
The Creality Laser Engraver Enclosure is an excellent solution for anyone looking to enhance safety, reduce noise, and manage smoke when using a laser engraver. With a spacious design, durable build, and convenient features, this enclosure is a solid investment for both hobbyists and professionals.
Large Size & Compatibility
With dimensions of 27.5×28.3×15.7 inches (700x720x400mm), this enclosure offers ample space for various laser engravers, including those from Creality, xTool, and other popular brands. The additional height allows for the installation of a rotary roller, expanding engraving capabilities.
Safety Protection
The Creality Laser Engraver Enclosure is constructed with high-quality flame-retardant material, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1000°C (1832°F). This helps prevent fire hazards while also protecting the engraver from water and dust. Additionally, the enclosure effectively reduces noise, isolates smoke, and minimizes odors generated during engraving operations.
Eye Protection Viewing Window
A large, transparent viewing window allows users to monitor the engraving process without needing to open the enclosure. The window is made from a light-filtering material that blocks harmful blue light, providing enhanced eye protection while working.
Powerful Exhaust System
Equipped with an exhaust fan and ventilation pipe, the Creality Laser Engraver Enclosure ensures efficient removal of smoke and dust. This built-in smoke ventilation system maintains a clean air environment, making it suitable for indoor use.
Easy Installation & Foldable Design
Assembly is quick and tool-free, requiring only a few steps to set up. The enclosure is also foldable, making it easy to store when not in use. Its lightweight yet durable construction ensures portability without compromising stability.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Large size fits most laser engravers
- High-temperature flame-retardant material for added safety
- Effective noise, smoke, and odor isolation
- Blue-light filtering window for eye protection
- Built-in exhaust fan for better ventilation
- Easy to assemble and fold for storage
Cons:
- Exhaust fan may not be as powerful as standalone air purifiers
- The foldable design might reduce structural rigidity over time
The Creality Laser Engraver Enclosure is a top choice for those looking to improve their laser engraving experience. With its spacious design, fire-resistant materials, and built-in exhaust system, it offers excellent protection and convenience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned engraver, this enclosure will enhance your workspace’s safety and efficiency.
Comparison Table: Top 3 Laser Engraver Enclosure Options
Feature | Comgrow Laser Enclosure | xTool Laser Enclosure | Creality Laser Enclosure |
|---|---|---|---|
Size (LxWxH) | 700x700x400mm (27.5×27.5×15.7″) | 625x610x310mm (24.6”x24”x12.2”) | 700x720x400mm (27.5×28.3×15.7″) |
Compatibility | Comgrow Z1, Ortur, xTool D1, ATOMSTACK, Twotrees, Sculpfun | xTool D1/D1 Pro & other laser engravers | Creality, xTool, and most other laser engravers |
Material | Soundproof & dustproof fabric | PU outer layer, PP core, flame-retardant polyester | Flame retardant fabric (resistant up to 1000°C) |
Flame Retardant | No | Yes (V0 flame-retardant PP board) | Yes (high heat resistance) |
Eye Protection | USB light for visibility | Polycarbonate light-filtering window | Transparent light-filtered viewing window |
Fume & Odor Control | 3-inch exhaust fan with left & right vent options | High-efficiency air circulation system | Built-in exhaust fan & pipe for ventilation |
Portability | Foldable, lightweight, and easy to store | Compact with integrated storage compartments | Foldable for easy storage & transport |
Extra Features | Top support pole for stability | Smart storage compartments | Rotary roller compatibility |
Best For | Users needing a budget-friendly enclosure with sound insulation | Those prioritizing air quality and premium safety | A budget-friendly option for engravers working with larger setups and rotary tools |
How to Build a DIY Laser Engraver Enclosure
Creating a DIY laser engraver enclosure is a great way to enhance safety, reduce noise, and manage fumes.
Whether you’re looking to protect yourself from harmful smoke or simply want a cleaner workspace, building a custom enclosure can be a cost-effective and efficient solution.
Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own laser engraver enclosure.
Materials Needed
- Fire Rated Plywood or MDF sheets (for the frame and panels)
- Orange or Red Tinted Acrylic sheet (for a viewing window)
- Screws and hinges (for assembly and access doors)
- Aluminum foil or fire-resistant insulation (for added safety)
- Exhaust fan and ducting (to ventilate fumes)
- Weather stripping or rubber seals (to contain fumes and dust)
- LED strip lights (for interior lighting)
- Power drill, saw, and measuring tape (for construction)
- Safety glasses and gloves (for protection during assembly)
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Panels
Since laser engraver dimensions vary, you’ll need to take precise measurements before cutting your panels. Consider the following:
- Width & Depth: Measure the widest and deepest parts of your engraver, including cables or protruding components, then add an extra margin (about 10mm or ½ inch).
- Height: Move the laser head to its highest position and measure from the table surface, ensuring there’s enough clearance for any moving parts.
- Material Thickness: If using MDF, remember to account for panel thickness when calculating dimensions.
For ease, many hardware stores will cut MDF to size for you. If using foam board, a utility knife will do the job.
Step 2: Adding a Viewing Window
For safety and monitoring, install an orange or red-tinted acrylic sheet in the top panel. These colors effectively filter blue laser light while still allowing visibility. Attach the window using epoxy or screws.
Step 3: Installing Ventilation
An exhaust fan and flexible ducting (around 4 inches in diameter) help remove smoke and fumes. Install the fan at the back or whichever side is closest to your ventilation outlet.
Step 4: Assembling the Enclosure
Use wood glue for MDF or hot glue for foam board to assemble the panels. If your MDF panels are thin, reinforce the corners with small wooden strips for added strength. Install hinges for the top panel to allow easy access to your engraver.
Step 5: Optional Enhancements
For added functionality, consider:
- LED Lighting: Improves visibility inside the enclosure.
- Air Assist System: Helps with cleaner cuts and reduces burning.
- Honeycomb Table: Enhances airflow for better engraving results.
- Fireproofing: Line the interior with aluminum sheets for extra safety.
Ensure your DIY Laser Engraver Enclosure is Flame Retardant
Making your DIY laser engraver enclosure flame retardant is crucial for safety. Here are several effective ways to improve fire resistance:
Use Fire-Resistant Materials
- Metal Panels: Aluminum or steel sheets are highly fire-resistant and can be used to line the enclosure.
- Fire-Rated MDF or Plywood: If using wood-based materials, opt for fire-retardant-treated versions.
- Flame-Resistant Foam Board: Some high-density foam boards are treated to resist fire.
- Polycarbonate or Acrylic Sheets: These materials resist heat better than regular plastic.
Apply Fire-Retardant Coatings
- Flame-Retardant Spray: Apply a fireproofing spray designed for wood, fabric, or foam.
- High-Temperature Paint: Some heat-resistant paints can add a layer of protection.
- Intumescent Coating: Expands when exposed to heat, forming a protective barrier.
Use Fireproof Liners
- Aluminum Foil or Sheet Metal Lining: Reflects heat and prevents flames from spreading.
- Ceramic or Heat-Resistant Insulation Sheets: Used in industrial fireproofing.
- Fire-Resistant Silicone Sheets: Can be placed inside the enclosure to create a protective barrier.
Improve Ventilation & Airflow
- Install an Exhaust Fan: Quickly removes smoke and heat.
- Use a Smoke Detector Inside the Enclosure: Provides early fire warning.
- Keep Flammable Materials Away: Ensure proper clearance from the laser path.
Monitor & Maintain Safety
- Never Leave the Laser Unattended: Always supervise during operation.
- Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby: CO₂ or dry powder extinguishers work best for electrical fires.
- Add a Temperature Sensor: Helps detect excessive heat build-up.
By incorporating these flame-retardant measures, you can create a safer DIY laser engraver enclosure.
Laser Engraver Enclosure Glossary of Terms
A
- Air Assist – A system that directs a stream of air onto the engraving/cutting surface to reduce scorching, improve cutting precision, and prevent flare-ups.
- Acrylic Window – A transparent or tinted sheet used in enclosures to allow visibility while filtering harmful laser light.
- Absorption – The process by which a material takes in laser light energy, reducing reflection and transmission.
B
- Burn Protection – Safety measures in an enclosure that prevent heat damage, such as flame-retardant materials.
- Blue Light Filtering – A feature in acrylic viewing windows that blocks hazardous blue laser wavelengths.
- Baffle System – Internal airflow structures that help direct smoke and fumes toward the exhaust system.
C
- Cooling System – A setup that prevents overheating inside the enclosure, often including ventilation fans or liquid cooling components.
- Carbon Filter – A filtration element used to remove odors and fine particles from exhaust air.
- Combustion Risk – The likelihood of a material catching fire when exposed to the laser beam.
D
- Ducting – Flexible or rigid tubing used to direct smoke and fumes from the enclosure to the outside environment.
- Dust Collection System – A mechanism to capture fine debris produced during engraving or cutting.
- Diode Laser – A type of laser commonly used in engravers, typically emitting blue or infrared light.
E
- Exhaust Fan – A ventilation component that removes smoke, fumes, and particles from inside the enclosure.
- Enclosure Frame – The structural foundation of an enclosure, often made from metal, MDF, or plastic panels.
- Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) – Disruptions that can affect laser engraver electronics due to improper shielding.
F
- Flame Retardant – Materials or coatings that resist catching fire, used to enhance enclosure safety.
- Filtering Efficiency – A measure of how well a filter captures smoke, fumes, and particulates.
- Flexible Hose – A bendable tube used for directing exhaust air to a ventilation point.
G
- Goggles (Laser Safety Goggles) – Protective eyewear designed to shield against harmful laser radiation.
- Glare Reduction – A feature of laser-safe windows that minimizes brightness and reflection.
H
- Honeycomb Bed – A perforated work surface inside an enclosure that allows for better air circulation and reduces material scorching.
- Heat Resistance – The ability of an enclosure material to withstand high temperatures without degrading.
I
- Infrared Absorption – The ability of a material to absorb infrared laser light, reducing reflection and potential hazards.
- Internal Lighting – LED lights inside the enclosure for better visibility of the engraving process.
M
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) – A common material used in DIY enclosures due to its affordability and ease of cutting.
- Metal Lining – A layer of metal inside an enclosure to improve fire resistance.
O
- Optical Density (OD) – A measure of how much laser light is blocked by a protective viewing window or material.
- Odor Control – The ability of an enclosure to contain and remove unpleasant fumes from engraving or cutting.
P
- Polycarbonate Window – A specialized material used in enclosure viewing windows to block laser light while allowing visibility.
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – A durable, flame-retardant fabric sometimes used in enclosures.
- PP (Polypropylene) Board – A lightweight, fire-resistant plastic material used in enclosure panels.
R
- Rigid Enclosure – A fully structured enclosure made from solid materials like MDF, acrylic, or metal.
- Removable Panel – A section of an enclosure that can be detached for maintenance or adjusting the laser engraver.
S
- Smoke Extraction – The process of removing smoke from an enclosure using an exhaust system.
- Soundproofing – Features in an enclosure that reduce noise levels during laser operation.
- Safety Interlock – A mechanism that shuts off the laser when the enclosure door is opened.
T
- Tinted Window – A darkened viewing panel that filters laser light for safer observation.
- Temperature Regulation – The process of maintaining safe internal temperatures in the enclosure.
V
- Ventilation System – A combination of fans, ducting, and filters that remove heat, smoke, and fumes from the enclosure.
- Viewing Port – A transparent section in an enclosure that allows users to monitor engraving progress.
W
- Waterproof Coating – A protective layer that prevents moisture damage inside an enclosure.
- Work Area – The designated space inside the enclosure where engraving or cutting takes place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an enclosure for laser engraver?
While not always required, a laser engraver enclosure is highly recommended for safety, fume extraction, noise reduction, and dust control. It helps protect your workspace and improves engraving efficiency.
What material is used for laser cutter enclosures?
Laser cutter enclosures are typically made from flame-retardant materials such as polycarbonate, aluminum, steel, PU-coated fabric, PET, or 600D Oxford cloth. Some also use PP hollow boards for durability and insulation.
Can I build my own laser engraver enclosure?
Yes, you can build your own laser engraver enclosure using materials like wood, acrylic, metal, or flame-retardant fabric, along with proper ventilation and safety features.
Final Words
All three of the laser engraver enclosures we highlighted above are good options. You must determine which option meets your unique needs, preferences, and budget. Measure your own laser engraver, then consider the factors you value the most out of an enclosure. From there, choose the best option for you and your machine.
For more information on why a laser engraver enclosure is worthwhile, we recommend reading Are Laser Engraving Fumes Toxic?
If you choose a laser engraver enclosure that does not come with its exhaust fan, or you would like to upgrade your existing enclosure, we also recommend reading The Top 5 Laser Engraver Exhaust Fan Options.