How to Choose Laser Cutting Assist Gas
07/14
2023
Auxiliary gas is an indispensable component in the cutting process. In addition to blowing away the molten slag, coaxial gas also cools the cutting zone and cleans the kerf. It protects the focusing lens and prevents smoke and dust from entering, thereby avoiding contamination of the optical elements. Consequently, the selection of auxiliary gas can have a significant impact on various aspects of the cutting process, including process parameters, performance, cutting speed, and material thickness.
The application scope and characteristics of different auxiliary gases are as follows:
(1) Oxygen. Primarily used for cutting carbon steel. The heat of the oxygen‑based reaction can significantly enhance cutting efficiency, and the oxide layer formed during the cutting process also increases the spectral absorption coefficient of the beam by reflective materials. The main materials suitable for this process include rolled steel, carbon steel, high‑tensile steel, tool steel, stainless steel, electroplated steel, copper, and copper alloys.
(2) Nitrogen. Primarily used for cutting stainless steel. Using nitrogen for cutting can prevent the formation of oxide films, enabling oxidation‑free cutting. Characteristics of oxidation‑free cutting: it allows for direct welding and coating, and offers excellent corrosion resistance. Mainly suitable materials include: stainless steel, electroplated steel sheets, brass, aluminum, and aluminum alloys.
(3) Air. Since air can be supplied directly by an air compressor, its cost is relatively low. However, its cutting efficiency is far inferior to that of oxygen, and its cutting performance is comparable to that of nitrogen. The oxide film formed during cutting helps prevent the coating layer from peeling off. The cut surface turns yellow. It is primarily suitable for materials such as aluminum, aluminum alloys, stainless steel, brass, electroplated steel, and nonmetals.
(4) Inert gas: argon. Compared with other gases, argon is more expensive and is primarily used to prevent oxidation and nitriding. The cut surface turns white. It is mainly used for titanium alloys and titanium, among others.
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