For sheet metal fabricators, automotive workshops, and general engineering firms, laser cutting is now a cornerstone of modern manufacturing and operational processes. Behind every high-performance laser cutting system is a critical supporting component: a reliable compressed air supply. Increasingly, rotary screw air compressors are emerging as the preferred solution for powering laser cutting operations.
“Behind every high-performance laser cutting system is a reliable compressed air supply delivering clean, consistent power.”
What role does compressed air play in laser cutting?
Compressed air is commonly used as an assist gas in laser cutting processes, particularly for cutting mild steel and other materials. It plays a valuable role in clearing molten material from the cut zone, cooling the cutting area, and improving edge quality. For optimal results, the air supply must be consistent, clean, dry, and delivered at the correct pressure and flow rate.
Laser cutting systems place significant demands on compressed air systems. One of the most important requirements is high pressure. Many fibre laser cutting machines require air pressures up to 16 bar to achieve clean cuts and minimise dross formation.
Additionally, air delivery, known as flow rate, is equally important. A typical system may require an airflow of 20 litres per second (approximately 42 CFM) at high pressure to maintain consistent cutting performance.
Equally important is air quality. Moisture, oil, or contaminants in compressed air can damage sensitive laser components such as cutting heads and valves, leading to costly downtime and reduced accuracy. This is why integrated filtration and drying systems are essential in any compressor used for laser cutting.
Why have rotary screw air compressors become the popular choice?
Energy savings and efficiencies are the primary reasons why rotary screw air compressors have surged in popularity for laser cutting applications. Their ability to deliver a continuous, stable air supply is highly valued, unlike piston compressors, which operate in cycles.
Their design supports continuous duty cycles, making them suitable for demanding industrial environments where equipment runs for extended periods.
Another key advantage is reliability. Rotary screw compressors use oil-injected or oil-lubricated systems to cool and seal the compression process, improving durability and reducing wear. This results in lower maintenance requirements and longer service life.
The NGS 15VS-16BAR rotary screw air compressor from Pilot Air is available as an integrated, plug-and-play system that combines the compressor, air receiver, dryer, and filtration into a single unit. This simplifies installation and ensures all components are correctly matched for optimal performance.
How does the industry benefit?
Using compressed air as an alternative to traditional assist gases like nitrogen or oxygen offers several advantages:
- Cost savings: Compressed air is significantly cheaper than bottled gases, reducing operational expenses.
- Improved productivity: High-pressure air enables faster cutting speeds in certain materials.
- Reduced consumables: Eliminates the need for ongoing gas supply logistics.
- Versatility: Suitable for a wide range of materials and thicknesses.
These benefits make compressed air an attractive option for workshops looking to optimise performance and cost-efficiency.
Why choose the NGS 15VS-16 Bar rotary screw air compressor?
The NGS 15VS-16 Bar variable-speed rotary screw compressor has been purpose-built for laser cutting applications. One of its standout features is its ability to deliver consistent 16 bar pressure, ensuring reliable cutting performance and superior edge quality. This high-pressure capability is essential for achieving clean cuts and minimising rework.
The unit also delivers 20 L/s of free air at 16 bar, meeting the airflow requirements of high-performance laser systems. The NGS system is a fully integrated, plug-and-play design. It includes a refrigerated dryer, a filtration system, and a 500L air receiver, ensuring that clean, dry air is supplied directly to the laser cutter.
Designed for the Australian industry, the NGS range is built for durability and backed by strong local service, onshore support, and a 3-year warranty, making it a dependable and cost-effective choice for workshops and manufacturing facilities.
“Pilot Air’s integrated compressor solutions combine performance, durability and simplicity to meet the demands of modern industry.”
Air compressors you can rely on
For Australian businesses looking to upgrade their compressed air systems, the Pilot Air NGS rotary screw range offers a compelling combination of efficiency, capability, and value, making it a smart choice for the next generation of industrial operations.
Pilot Air is proudly Australian-owned and independent, with onshore maintenance and service, skilled technicians, and a large inventory of spare parts.
Contact our team today.
