Laser Cutting Process and Assist Gases: Why You Need Nitrogen for Laser Cutting

Laser cutting machines work by directing a high-powered laser beam through optics and onto the material to be cut. The laser beam is focused through a lens and projected onto the material, melting or vaporizing it in a localized area due to the rapid temperature rise. The material is then removed by a co-axial gas jet, which blows away the molten material and creates a kerf. The gas jet also helps to cool the material and prevent it from warping or distorting. The laser cutting machine is controlled by a computer numerical control (CNC) system, which ensures precision and accuracy in the cutting process.

Assist gases are used in laser cutting to improve the quality and efficiency of the cutting process. The assist gas helps to blow away the molten material and prevent it from re-solidifying on the surface of the material. It also helps to cool the material and prevent it from warping or distorting. The most commonly used assist gases in laser cutting are nitrogen, oxygen, and compressed air.

The purity of the assist gas will depend on the customer's requirements for the final product, although we must consider that:

• If we use atmospheric air the purity of the air cannot be changed, we will have 78% nitrogen and around 21% oxygen.
• If we use oxygen, we're generally going to have purities above 99.5%.
• And if we use nitrogen, it will depend on the material to be cut, whether the material is going to be treated afterwards, the importance of the color of the cutting edge, etc. 

Bearing in mind that, by decreasing the purity of the nitrogen, we will reduce the cost significantly.

Yes, it is feasible to generate your own assist gas like nitrogen within the plant premises. By integrating a high-pressure gas generation system into the facility, companies can ensure a continuous supply of gas, available round-the-clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This approach not only reduces operational expenses but also affords complete control of gas consumption. Furthermore, by eliminating the need for truck transportation, companies can significantly reduce CO₂ emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability.

Nitrogen generators are essential for optimizing laser cutting operations, offering a range of practical benefits. There are two kinds of nitrogen generators, membrane and PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) nitrogen generators, which make it possible to achieve very high levels of purity.

Businesses that use nitrogen in laser cutting can significantly reduce costs by generating their own nitrogen supply, eliminating the need for external purchases. This in-house production also ensures greater control over nitrogen purity, guaranteeing consistent quality without dependence on external suppliers.

Moreover, by producing nitrogen on-site, companies contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing transportation emissions and minimizing reliance on traditional nitrogen production methods. Overall, the use of nitrogen generators is a pragmatic choice for companies looking to enhance efficiency and environmental responsibility in laser cutting processes.

Laser cutting machines often rely on compressed air or gases for various functions, including powering the laser itself. High-pressure compressors and boosters provide the necessary compressed air or assist gases like nitrogen for the laser cutting process. They ensure a consistent and reliable power source for the laser, contributing to stable and precise cutting. High-pressure compressors are used to compress gases like nitrogen or oxygen for assisted laser cutting. Pressurization of assist gases enhances laser the cutting process and facilitates the delivery of high-pressure gases to the cutting head for optimal performance.