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Why Use Air Compressor For Metal Cutting Fiber Laser Machine?

Views: 0     Author: XD laser     Publish Time: 2021-04-13      Origin: XD laser

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Why Use Air Compressor For Metal Cutting Fiber Laser Machine?

Are you still using expensive bottle oxygen and nitrogen for cutting?


Introduction of  air compressor:

An air compressor for metal cutting in a fiber laser machine serves several important functions that enhance the cutting process and ensure the longevity and efficiency of the machine. Here's a breakdown of its roles:


Reason for using air compressor for metal cutting fiber laser machine?

 1.Save cost

When the metal cutting fiber laser machine is cutting carbon steel/iron/mild steel, it needs the help of Oxygen. When the fiber laser machine is cutting stainless steel,galvanized sheet,aluminum,copper, it needs the help of Nitrogen. But the cost of Oxygen and Nitrogen is always very expensive. The price of Nitrogen is 4 times of Oxygen. One small bottle can use only 1-2 hours.Many factories will think it is too costly to use Oxygen and Nitrogen for cutting. Some factories choose Liquid Nitrogen with big bottle to save money. Some factories buy Nitrogen producing machine. Some factories buy air compressor and use compressed air for cutting.

 

Air compressor

2. Save time

 Normally, a metal cutting fiber laser machine support 3 kinds of gas:Nitrogen,Oxygen and  compressed air. You can choose the gas by the buttons on the machine or choose from software. It is very easy to do. Please be noted that a fiber laser cutting machine can work only with the help of gas. Without gas, it can not cut at all. If you use Nitrogen and oxygen for cutting, you need to go to buy gas and use truck to take to your room. If you buy Nitrogen produce machine or air compressor, you do not need to go.

 

The disadvantage of using air compressor:

1.Cutting edge

The cutting edge of the steel cut by compressed air is not as good as the steel cut with oxygen and Nitrogen. But the difference is not very big, you do not need to care it too much.

2.Cutting speed

As you may know, the oxygen help to get fire. On laser machine also like this. When you use Oxygen for cutting steel, you can get faster cutting speed.

3.Electricity cost

If you use compressed air for cutting, you need to buy air compressor. The normal power consumption of one air compressor is about 11KW. That means, you will need to spend 11KW more power when do the cutting.

AL though the electricity cost, use compressed air for cutting is still cheaper than use Nitrogen and Oxygen. You can consider your real situation and choose the best way for your factory. Wish you to earn big money with your metal cutting fiber laser machine.


The Role of Air in Fiber Laser Cutting

While fiber lasers themselves do not require air to operate, the process of cutting metal does benefit from the use of an air compressor. Here are the primary reasons why an air compressor is used with a fiber laser machine:

1. Assist Gas for Cutting

One of the key functions of an air compressor in fiber laser cutting is to provide an assist gas, which is directed through the cutting head along with the laser beam. This assist gas serves several purposes:

  • Oxygen: When used as an assist gas, oxygen reacts with the metal to create an exothermic reaction, which helps to cut through thicker materials more efficiently.

  • Nitrogen: Nitrogen can be used for non-reactive cutting, which is particularly useful for materials that are prone to oxidation or where edge quality is paramount.

2. Cooling the Laser Head

The intense heat generated during the cutting process can affect the performance of the laser head. An air compressor provides a continuous flow of cool air that helps to dissipate heat and maintain the optimal operating temperature of the laser head, thereby preventing thermal damage and ensuring consistent performance.

3. Removing Fumes and Debris

Metal cutting produces fumes and debris, which can accumulate around the cutting area and potentially interfere with the cutting process. The airflow from an air compressor helps to clear these byproducts away from the cutting zone, ensuring a clean and safe working environment.

4. Maintaining Focus and Beam Quality

The quality of the laser beam is crucial for precise cutting. An air compressor can help maintain the focus and quality of the beam by providing a stable environment for the laser to operate in. This is particularly important when cutting reflective materials, where even minor disturbances can lead to inaccuracies.

5. Enhancing Safety

Safety is a paramount concern in any industrial setting. An air compressor can help to enhance safety by providing a means to quickly extinguish any sparks or small fires that may occur during the cutting process.

6. Supporting Machine Functions

In addition to the direct benefits to the cutting process, an air compressor can also support various machine functions, such as actuating mechanical components and providing power to certain tools and accessories.

Conclusion

The use of an air compressor in conjunction with a fiber laser machine for metal cutting is not just a matter of convenience; it's a strategic choice that enhances the overall performance, efficiency, and safety of the cutting process. By providing an assist gas, cooling the laser head, removing fumes and debris, maintaining focus and beam quality, and supporting machine functions, an air compressor plays a vital role in optimizing the capabilities of fiber laser cutting machines.

In conclusion, integrating an air compressor into your fiber laser cutting setup is a smart investment that pays dividends in terms of improved cutting quality, increased productivity, and enhanced safety standards. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best innovations are the ones that work behind the scenes to make everything else possible.



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