NEWS CENTER

JINGCHUANG LASER

27

2025

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08

How to choose auxiliary gas for a laser cutting machine?


How to choose auxiliary gas for a laser cutting machine?‌

Laser cutting machines commonly use three types of assist gases: ‌oxygen, nitrogen, and compress air‌. Each has distinct differences in cost, material compatibility, and cut quality. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Gas Characteristics Comparison

  1. Oxygen

    • Function‌: Acts as an oxidizer, enhancing cutting speed through combustion, ideal for thick carbon steel.
    • Effect‌: Produces a bright or matte finish, but oxidation may darken the cut edge; positive focus improves cut quality, while negative focus increases speed.
    • Cost‌: Moderate—higher than air but lower than nitrogen.
  2. Nitrogen

    • Function‌: Creates an inert shielding gas, preventing oxidation, suitable for stainless steel, aluminum, and other high-precision materials.
    • Effect‌: Delivers a shiny, oxidation-free cut edge, but slower cutting speed; thick materials may develop burrs.
    • Cost‌: Higher, with purity requirements (fewer impurities improve cut quality).
  3. Air

    • Function‌: A cost-effective option for materials with lower edge quality requirements (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum).
    • Effect‌: Fastest cutting speed but may result in yellow or darkened edges; long-term use may increase machine maintenance costs.
    • Cost‌: Lowest—only electricity and compressor costs.

2. Material-Specific Recommendations

  • Carbon Steel‌: Oxygen (preferred for thick sheets); thin sheets can use nitrogen or air.
  • Stainless Steel‌: Nitrogen (for a shiny edge) or air (for speed).
  • Aluminum/Copper‌: Nitrogen reduces oxidation; air improves efficiency.
  • Titanium Alloy‌: Air is the most economical; argon (inert gas) preserves color but is expensive.

3. General Selection Guidelines

  • Cost-Sensitive‌: Prioritize air, but consider maintenance trade-offs.
  • Quality-Focused‌: Nitrogen (high purity) or oxygen (carbon steel).
  • Efficiency-Focused‌: Air or oxygen (with negative focus).

Note‌: Gas purity significantly affects cut quality. High-purity nitrogen reduces impurities, resulting in smoother edges.

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