Nitrogen and oxygen generators play a significant role in laser cutting applications, where they provide gases that are crucial for the quality and efficiency of the cutting process. Here’s how these generators are used in laser cutting:
- Assist Gas: Nitrogen is commonly used as an assist gas in laser cutting processes. It is blown through the same nozzle as the laser beam to help remove molten material from the cut, reduce oxide formation, and protect the cutting lens from spatter and debris. Nitrogen helps to produce a cleaner cut with smoother edges and reduces the amount of post-processing required.
- Cutting Atmosphere: In some cases, nitrogen is used to create an inert atmosphere around the cutting area. This is particularly important when cutting reactive materials like titanium or aluminum, which can oxidize rapidly when exposed to air at high temperatures. The inert atmosphere prevents oxidation and ensures a clean cut without impurities.
- Actinic Oxygen: Oxygen acts as an aid to combustion in laser cutting of organic materials and some metals. When used as an assist gas, oxygen reacts exothermically with the material being cut, which can increase the cutting speed and penetration depth. However, this application is more typical for plasma and flame cutting rather than laser cutting.
- Oxygen Enhancement: In laser cutting of carbon steel, a small amount of oxygen added to the assist gas can enhance the cutting process by promoting oxidation, which increases the energy absorption of the material and leads to a faster cut.
- Lens Protection: Both nitrogen and oxygen can be used to protect the cutting lens from dust and debris generated during the cutting process. A stream of gas directed over the lens helps to maintain its clarity and longevity.
- Post-Cut Treatment: Occasionally, oxygen may be used after the cutting process to treat cuts made in certain metals, such as stainless steel, to form a passivation layer that helps prevent corrosion.
The use of nitrogen and oxygen generators in laser cutting provides a reliable and economical source of gases, eliminating the need for high-pressure gas cylinders and ensuring a consistent supply for industrial applications. On-site gas generation also offers safety benefits by reducing the risks associated with the storage and transport of high-pressure gas cylinders.
