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What happens if I use PVC?

This article provides essential guidelines to help you identify if a material contains PVC and explains the severe damage it can cause to your Due Flow and your health if used by mistake.

Why is PVC prohibited?

As stated in the User Manual and Warranty Policy, materials containing PVC are strictly prohibited.

PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride. While harmless in its natural state, applying laser heat to it produces a highly toxic smoke containing Hydrogen Chloride (HCl). HCl is one of the strongest acids known and is extremely dangerous to inhale.

How to identify if a material contains PVC

Before cutting any unknown plastic, follow these steps:

  1. Consult the Supplier: They should provide the chemical composition and may offer a chlorine-free alternative.
  2. Check the Packaging: Look for terms like "PVC," "Chlorine," or "Vinyl."
  3. Recycling Symbols: Check the resin identification code. If you see the number 3 inside the recycling symbol ♻, the material is predominantly PVC. Note: The absence of this symbol does not guarantee the material is PVC-free.
  4. Online Research: Search for the specific material name followed by "composition."
  5. Contact Support: If in doubt, ask our technical team. We may have already tested the material.

Damage caused by cutting PVC

If you notice any of the following signs, stop using the material immediately. The HCl gas strips the protective chrome layer from high-quality parts, causing rapid oxidation.

1. Oxidation of Metal Parts

Screws, spacers, and bearings near the work area will develop a rusted appearance. Aluminum components, such as motion rails, will show oxidation spots that cannot be cleaned off.

2. Electronic Failure

The corrosive smoke attacks electrical circuits. Components like the laser head cooler and the red pointer are usually the first to fail due to their proximity to the cutting area.


Figure 1: Examples of electronic component corrosion (Coming Soon)

3. Exhaust System Damage

The exhaust fan pulls the toxic smoke through its blades and motor, leading to premature failure and internal corrosion of the extraction path.

4. Controller and Power Supply Issues

In cases of prolonged use, HCl can reach the Controller Board and the Laser Power Supply. You may notice oxidation on the USB ports or the selector switches. This can lead to total loss of communication or laser firing failure.


Figure 2: Corroded USB ports and power supply switches (Coming Soon)

5. Cable Degradation

Hydrogen Chloride dries out the insulation of high-voltage cables, making them brittle. This can lead to: * Transverse or longitudinal cracks. * Total breakage of the cable. * Energy leaks or overheating.

Safety and Warranty Warning

Using PVC not only jeopardizes your health but also causes irreversible damage to your machine that is not covered by warranty. If you suspect your equipment has been exposed to HCl, disconnect it immediately and contact our support team.

Need help identifying a material? Contact Due Laser Support before you start your project to ensure a safe working environment.