Assist gases: Why purity matters
To achieve clean, accurate, and oxidation-free cuts, laser cutting machines rely on assist gases—typically nitrogen or dry compressed air. These gases play a critical role in the cutting process by:
- Clearing molten metal from the kerf (cut zone)
- Preventing oxidation, especially important when cutting stainless steel and aluminium
- Cooling the material and optics, protecting components from heat stress and contamination
However, the purity of these gases directly affects both cut quality and system performance.
Even low levels of contaminants—like moisture, oil vapour, or dust particles—can cause:
- Burnt or discoloured edges
- Rough or inconsistent cuts
- Slower processing speeds
- Excess spatter and rework
- Clogged nozzles or damaged optics
For example, in sheet metal fabrication, nitrogen purity levels of 99.95% or higher are typically recommended to produce clean, burr-free edges with no oxidation—especially for visible or painted parts.
This is why top-performing laser operations rely on dry, oil-free, and stable gas supply, whether it's delivered from high-pressure cylinders or generated on-site. Gas purity isn't just a detail—it’s a determining factor in the quality of every cut.