⚡ Quick Answer: Which Gas?
Mild Steel + Speed: O₂ (0.5-3 bar) | Stainless/Weld-Ready: N₂ (12-20 bar) | Aluminum: N₂ (18-25 bar)
Select the optimal assist gas for laser cutting based on your material and application. Get recommended gas type, pressure, and purity levels.
Select parameters to get gas recommendation.
| Gas | Best For | Pressure | Edge Quality | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🔥 Oxygen | Mild steel, speed priority | 0.5-5 bar | Oxide layer | Medium |
| ❄️ Nitrogen | Stainless, aluminum, weld prep | 8-25 bar | Oxide-free | High |
| 💨 Air | Thin material, cost priority | 6-12 bar | Slight oxide | Low |
| 🛡️ Argon | Titanium, aerospace | 10-20 bar | Pristine | High |
Use OXYGEN when: Cutting mild/carbon steel, maximum speed is priority, slight oxide layer on edge is acceptable. Use NITROGEN when: Edge will be welded or painted (oxide-free), cutting stainless steel or aluminum, food-grade/sanitary finish needed, visible parts requiring clean appearance. Nitrogen costs more but produces superior edge quality.
General guidelines: Oxygen cutting: 0.5-5 bar (lower pressure, exothermic reaction assists). Nitrogen cutting: 8-25 bar (higher pressure needed to blow molten metal). Aluminum N₂: 15-25 bar (highest pressure to prevent dross). Thin material: lower pressure. Thick material: higher pressure. Start at mid-range and adjust based on cut quality.
Yes, compressed air works for thin materials and non-critical applications. Air is 21% oxygen so provides some cutting assist. Requirements: Clean (filtered), dry (dew point -40°C), oil-free. Best for: thin materials (<3mm), general fabrication where edge quality is not critical, shops prioritizing low operating costs. Not suitable for: thick materials, welding/painting prep, food-grade applications.
Titanium reacts with oxygen and nitrogen at high temperatures, causing embrittlement and loss of mechanical properties. Argon is a truly inert gas that provides no chemical reaction. For aerospace applications, even the back side of the cut needs shielding (trailing shield). This is why titanium cutting is more expensive and specialized.
Safety Note: Always follow proper safety procedures when handling compressed gases. Ensure adequate ventilation and use appropriate PPE. Keep oxygen away from oil and grease.
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