Assist Gas Flow Calculator

Calculate gas consumption rates and monthly operating costs for laser cutting operations

Cutting Parameters

Most common for stainless steel and aluminum

5 bar15 bar (typical)25 bar
0.8mm1.5mm (typical)3.0mm
30 min1.0 hrs8 hrs
10 days20 days30 days

Flow Rate

348.6 L/min

20.92 m³/hour

Gas Consumption

Daily20.92
Monthly418.3
Cylinders/Month42 units

Based on standard 50L cylinder at 200 bar (≈10m³ usable gas)

Cost Analysis

Daily Cost$5.23
Monthly Cost$104.58
Annual Cost$1254.96

Gas price: $0.25/m³ (regional pricing may vary)

Gas Selection Guide

Nitrogen:

Best for stainless steel, aluminum. Prevents oxidation. Pressure: 12-20 bar.

Oxygen:

Optimal for carbon steel. Exothermic reaction increases cut speed. Pressure: 0.3-2 bar.

Air:

Budget option for mild steel. Some edge oxidation. Pressure: 8-12 bar.

Argon:

Titanium and reactive metals. Premium cost justified for critical applications.

Cost Optimization Tips

Minimize pressure: Use lowest pressure that maintains cut quality (saves 10-20%)

Optimize pierce time: Excessive pierce delay wastes gas

Check for leaks: Even small leaks cost $500-2000/year

Consider bulk supply: Liquid nitrogen tanks reduce costs by 30-50% vs cylinders

Nozzle maintenance: Worn nozzles require higher pressure, increasing consumption

Note: Flow rate calculations are approximations based on nozzle diameter and pressure. Actual consumption varies with nozzle design, gas temperature, line pressure losses, and cutting duty cycle. Gas prices shown are typical industrial rates and vary by region, supplier, and contract terms. For precise measurements, install a flow meter on your gas supply line.