The Evolution of Laser Cutting Assist Gas Technology
As reported by The Fabricator in their article, “Laser Cutting Assist Gas Technology Evolves”, assist gas plays a crucial role in fiber laser cutting, working in tandem with the laser beam to improve cut quality, speed, and efficiency. While oxygen and nitrogen have been traditional choices, innovations in gas mixing and nozzle technology are now reshaping the landscape.
Assist Gas Options & Their Advantages
- Nitrogen Cutting: Produces an oxide-free edge but consumes high amounts of gas, especially on thick materials.
- High-Pressure Air Cutting: A mix of 78% nitrogen and 21% oxygen, offering low operational costs and good cut quality on aluminum and thin mild steel.
- Oxygen Cutting: Best for thicker mild steel, leaving a wide kerf for easy denesting but requiring secondary finishing before welding or painting.
- Hybrid Gas Mixing (AGR-O2 Boost, AGR-AIR): Combines low-pressure air with oxygen or nitrogen, reducing gas consumption while maintaining cut quality.
Optimizing Laser Cutting with Advanced Nozzles
New assist gas reduction (AGR) technology, such as Mitsubishi’s integrated nozzle systems, optimizes gas flow to reduce costs, improve precision, and enhance material utilization. These innovations allow fabricators to cut thicker materials faster while minimizing oxidation and heat distortion.
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Article with all rights reserved, courtesy of The Fabricator.