3-6 Promark Embossment Engrave (2.5D Low Relief) Tutorial

Key Concepts Before You Start

• A depth map is not a normal photo. In a depth map, brightness represents height/depth, not shadows or lighting.

• Depth engraving relies on “slicing + multiple passes.” More layers create finer slices and smoother transitions, but take more time.

• Finer slicing usually requires more careful energy control. With higher layer counts, you may need more conservative power settings to avoid excessive darkening or engraving too deep.

  Depth Map	Regular Photo

Example Setup Used in This Tutorial

• Machine: Promark MOPA Laser

• Power: 100W

• Material: 5 mm thick copper coin

• Note: The parameters below are for demonstration only. Actual results vary depending on your machine (power, lens, spot size), material condition, focus, and calibration. Always run a small test first, then fine-tune power, speed, and fill settings based on your setup.

Step 1 - Import the Depth Map and Enable [Embossment]

1. Import your grayscale depth map and select the image object.

2. For best results, place the artwork centered on the canvas.

3. Click [Image] next to the layer.

4. Enable [Embossment].

Step 2 - Set [Layer Count] / [Z Step]

Layer Count 

This determines how many slices the grayscale depth map is divided into.

• Higher value: finer slices, smoother surface, better detail (but longer processing time)

• Lower value: faster engraving, but layer steps may be more visible

Conceptually: with more layers, the depth map is split into more slices. Dark areas use the full layer count; lighter areas use fewer layers; pure white may use 0 layers.

Z Step (Step Down per Layer)

This sets how much the Z axis (or focal plane) moves down after each layer. The best value depends on your power, speed, and material. The goal is to keep each layer working at a relatively correct focus for the best engraving quality.

Copper coin example (MOPA 100W): Layer Count: 100 Z Step: 0.001

Step 3 - Set Engraving Layer Parameters

Example parameters (MOPA 100W / copper coin): Power: 50% Speed: 1000 mm/s

Example parameters (MOPA 100W / copper coin): Fill Interval: 0.0025 mm

Example parameters (MOPA 100W / copper coin): Pulse Width: 300 ns Frequency: 35 kHz

If you’re using a lower-power machine, the general direction is: increase power and reduce speed (to increase energy density). Otherwise the engraving may not go deep enough or details may not show clearly.

Step 4 - Send the Job and Start Engraving

Reminder:

• Before starting, make sure you focus properly and preview/position the job.

• You can adjust layer count, speed, and fill settings to change the estimated engraving time.

Step 5 - Create a “Cleanup Layer” to Remove Oxidation

Why does it turn dark?

Darkening after depth engraving is common (oxidation/residue). A cleanup layer helps remove the dark surface layer and improves finish quality.

Create the Cleanup Layer

Draw a circle object that covers the area you want to clean—typically covering the entire engraved artwork. Set the cleanup layer parameters: Power: 15% Speed: 1800 mm/s Keep other settings default for now.

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Reminder: Before sending the cleanup layer, disable or hide the original Emboss engraved layer. Otherwise, the machine will engrave the Emboss design again. For the cleanup pass, keep only the cleanup circle object enabled.   Send the job. Repeat the cleanup pass as needed until you reach your desired brightness/cleanliness.

Quick Troubleshooting