Laser cutting is widely used in various industries to cut metal, plastic, and wood. The process requires a continuous supply of cutting gas, typically the most expensive utility. Traditionally, nitrogen and oxygen are used to drive laser-cutting machinery. However, the costs of these gases can account for up to 90% of the total utility expenses for laser cutting. With the advancement of air compressors, they present a highly cost-effective alternative to the laser cutting industry.
Depending on the material type and thickness, compressed air has several advantages. First, and every business is always looking for, is cost reduction. Compressed air costs approximately a quarter of the cost of supplying nitrogen or oxygen. This can reduce the utility costs of laser cutting by up to 75%. Compressed air can enhance cutting speed and throughput, leading to higher productivity. It reduces secondary cleanup and is the ideal solution for applications that require clean, dry air.
Compressed air quality
The quality of compressed air directly affects laser cutting results. All compressed air naturally contains contaminants like moisture and oil, which can have adverse effects if not properly managed. These contaminants can accumulate on the protective mirror of the laser cutting head, obstructing the laser beam and reducing its transmission efficiency.
Additionally, the precision of the laser beam can be compromised, causing an unfocused beam, poor cutting quality, and contamination that can result in incomplete cuts.
Mitigating these issues will include an efficient dryer to remove moisture and high-quality filters to eliminate oil and other contaminants from the compressed air. Delivering dried and filtered air at normal temperature helps prevent further condensation, ensuring the longevity, precision, and efficiency of the laser cutting equipment.
Key Takeaways
Cost Savings
Switching to compressed air for laser cutting can reduce operating gas costs by up to 75% compared to nitrogen or oxygen.
Precision & Quality
Clean, dry, and filtered air is essential for laser cutting; Pilot Air’s air treatment systems ensure contaminant-free results.
Performance Features
The PAC rotary screw series delivers up to 15 bar pressure, advanced cooling, and electronic control for continuous precision cutting.
Durability Under Load
Designed for 24/7 operations, the PAC range uses slow-speed air ends and advanced cooling to handle heavy-duty industrial use in Australian conditions.
“Cut costs by up to 75% — compressed air is the smart alternative for laser cutting.”
Choosing a suitable air compressor
Choosing the appropriate air compressor is essential, and operators must ensure the compressor can deliver at the necessary pressure. 15BAR is recommended. The compressor should include an efficient dryer to eliminate moisture from the air and be fitted with high-quality filters to remove oil and other contaminants.
Additionally, the compressor should maintain the air at an average temperature to avoid condensation and ensure consistent performance.
Pilot Air manufactures a range of rotary screw air compressors suitable for laser cutting. These include the PAC11, PAC15 and PAC22 models. Fitted with an indigenous dryer and featuring quality filters, these air compressors are an intelligent choice for businesses that use laser cutting.
The PAC range for laser cutting is fitted with an Italian-designed and manufactured air end. The lower air end speeds reduce wear and increase service life. They are designed for continuous operation without a drop in performance. They include advanced electronic controllers, while the cooling system has a thermally controlled independent radial fan that ensures constant air and oil temperatures, even during heavy working conditions.
Before investing in an air compressor for laser cutting, speak with our team to ensure it is suitable for your needs. Pilot Air has the industry knowledge and technical expertise to offer customers the most appropriate air compressor options for laser cutting, ensuring their investment is a savvy one.
Personalised service that guarantees results
From the initial consultation to the finished installation, our team is on hand to attend to every detail. You deal with the same person from start to completion, and our account managers and sales team are some of the most experienced and trusted in the industry.
See our complete Australian manufactured range of compressed air systems and products and speak to one of our experienced team to customise a silent compressed air solution to meet the needs of today and the demands of tomorrow.
