LightBurn Layer Order and Cut Preview Guide
Explore how layers, cut-order priorities, optimization settings, and Preview relate to a planned laser job. An independent guide to understanding operation sequence and pre-run review.
What This Layer Order Guide Covers
Nine reference points for reading a planned LightBurn job, from layer assignment to the final pre-run verification.
Cut-Order Priorities and Layer Sequencing Rules
Executing laser toolpaths reliably demands an exact operational chain. LightBurn arranges operations by layer assignment, priority numbers, and automatic geometric optimization rules.
Sub-Surface & Vector Marking
Surface raster fills and vector score lines must execute first while workpiece structural stability is 100%. Moving parts prematurely causes registration drift.
Internal Cut Geometry
Slots, mounting holes, and interior apertures must be cut before exterior contours so material vacuum pull and pin alignment remain undisturbed.
External Boundary Parting
Outer perimeters release the finished element completely from the base stock. Always isolate contour parting to the final execution block.
Optimization Settings and Path Sorting Logic
Toggle between the core execution engines to inspect how LightBurn calculates rapid travel moves, kerf direction, and collision boundaries before sending G-code or DSP instructions.
Strict Cut-Order Priority Overrides
When enabled, individual shapes or layer groups obey assigned integer numbers (0 to 99). This overrides travel optimizations and guarantees zero out-of-turn execution.
- Priority 00: Engrave text labels and reference datums
- Priority 10: Cut 3.2mm blind mounting pockets
- Priority 90: Final through-cut exterior perimeter
Recommended for multi-depth acrylic inlays and nested sheet assemblies where physical displacement would ruin concentric cuts.
Three Tags on One Work Area
Three practice tags are placed on a single work area. Compare how the job is organized when the optimizer runs Order by Layer versus Order by Group, and how the execution sequence can change between the two modes.
Scheme A — Order by Layer
Layer Passes1–3 mark pass across Tag 1 → Tag 2 → Tag 3; 4–6 inner-hole pass across all three tags; 7–9 outline pass across all three tags. The head returns to Tag 1 between passes.
Scheme B — Order by Group
Grouped Parts1–3 Tag 1 completed (mark → inner hole → outline); 4–6 Tag 2 completed in the same stack; 7–9 Tag 3 completed. Each tag finishes before the next group begins.
What changes between the two modes
Under Order by Layer the three mark operations stay contiguous and the head revisits earlier tags on every following pass; under Order by Group the head finishes each tag's full operation stack before moving to the next group. Neither sequence is universally better — open Preview to confirm which rule the optimizer will apply to your file.
Read the full case write-upPre-Flight Preview Verification Matrix
Never initialize a physical run without reviewing the virtual playhead slider in the LightBurn Preview window (Alt+P). Run this checklist against every unverified file.
Drag the progress slider from 0% to 100%. Verify that interior holes light up red before their framing outline initiates.
Inspect preview stepsCompare estimated run time against historical metrics. Unusual travel duration denotes inefficient layer routing.
Review machine limitsEnsure traversal path lines (thin red arrows) do not clip fixture hold-down clamps or high-profile magnetic standoffs.
Check clamp offsetsConfirm high-pressure solenoid solenoid activation is enabled solely on cut layers and turned off or low on raster fills.
Submit controller queryOfficial Support Context & Build Metadata
LightBurn software is actively maintained by LightBurn Software LLC. Version tracking ensures accurate g-code trajectory algorithms and driver compatibility with modern DSP and Galvo fiber controllers.
True Nest Geometric Engine
LightBurn Pro licenses include the proprietary True Nest multi-part packer. This resolves concave interlocking nested boundaries, directly reducing scrap percentages across acrylic and birch stock.
Scope of This LightBurn Guide
LightBurn is the third-party laser application discussed in this educational guide.
LayerOrder Fieldbook is an independent publication about operation planning and laser-job review.
The site does not provide LightBurn downloads, licenses, accounts, or official technical support.
LayerOrder Fieldbook is not affiliated with or officially connected with LightBurn Software.
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