TECHNICAL BLOG

Tube laser cutting has become a crucial process for various industries, offering a method to achieve a high degree of precision and efficiency for creating individual parts. One critical aspect of this technique is the choice of assist gas, with oxygen and nitrogen being the primary options, followed by argon and compressed shop air. For the purposes of this blog, we will focus on oxygen and nitrogen.

Understanding the differences between these gasses is essential for optimizing the tube laser cutting process and may be dependent on the type and quantity of the material being cut.

Oxygen as an assist gas:

1. Combustion reaction: Oxygen supports a combustion, or burning, reaction, which enhances the cutting speed. This is particularly advantageous when working with thicker materials.
2. Oxidation: One con is that the use of this gas can in some cases lead to oxidation on the cut edges, affecting the quality of the final product.
3. Material Compatibility: Oxygen is suitable for cutting ferrous metals such as steel, where the combustion reaction is effective.

Nitrogen as an assist gas:

1. Inert Properties: Nitrogen is inert, preventing combustion reactions. This is beneficial for materials that are sensitive to oxidation.
2. Cleaner Cut Edges: The absence of oxidation results in cleaner cut edges, reducing the need for additional post-processing, which would extend the production timeline.
3. Material Versatility: Nitrogen is suitable for a broader range of materials, including non-ferrous metals and alloys.

Facts that could influence this choice:

1. Material Type: Consider the specific material being cut most often, as certain metals may react differently to oxygen or nitrogen.
2. Cutting Speed vs. Edge Quality: Evaluate the tradeoff between faster cutting speeds with oxygen and cleaner cut edges with nitrogen, keeping in mind the power and operational aspects of the tube laser cutting system being used.
3. Cost Considerations: Oxygen is generally more cost-effective than nitrogen, so the choice may be influenced by budget constraints.
4. Accessibility and Use: Both gasses need to be sourced, delivered, and stored onsite, requiring dedicated space. Some companies use generators to produce the gas on their premises, allowing them immediate and unfettered access to their preferred assist gas.

In summary, the choice between oxygen and nitrogen as an assist gas in tube laser cutting depends on the specific requirements of the application. While oxygen may offer faster cutting speeds, nitrogen provides cleaner and more precise results, making it suitable for a broader range of materials. Understanding the properties and tradeoffs of each gas is essential for optimizing the tube laser cutting process and achieving the desired outcomes.