controlling pressure in laser cutting
Precision laser cutting requires the use of precision electronic regulators and controls. Proportion-Air offers a line of custom systems that regulate pressure in high-tech laser equipment.
Applications include:
- Adjustments to gas mixtures for laser charging chambers
- Regulation of pressure for cutting machinery based on the materials to be cut
- Adjusting assist gas for automated laser welding equipment
Gas Mixture Adjustments
Laser cutting is the primary application for our regulators. You need low pressure oxygen to pierce the metal, then high pressure nitrogen to achieve a clean cut. As the laser is making the cut, the oxygen helps burn through the metal. Once the surface is pierced, the switch to another gas (like nitrogen) keeps it clean – somewhat like blowing metal shavings aside to keep the cut debris-free. Such precision cutting means you don’t have to further machine any pieces off the edge, maximizing the effective and economical use of material.
The common valves that deliver these gases simply turn on and off, with no proportional adjustment. Their job is to select the correct gas based on what the laser is going to cut. The job of our equipment is to pass the blended gas proportionally. A computer tells our device as the cut is being made what the pressure should be to keep it clean and it continually adjusts.
To eliminate the potential for fire, our device is nickel-plated brass, not aluminum, which is important when dealing with oxygen surfeit. Also, we clean all petroleum products out of our regulators and use only those lubricants that are compatible with oxygen. We use an ultrasonic bath and other methods to verify the elimination of residue before coating with an oxygen-compatible lubricant.
Accuracy with Repeatability
Not only do our valves offer safety and precision, but that precision comes with extremely high repeatability. They are a proven commodity. Our clients will tell you that our laser cutting proportional valves are the most reliable in the industry.
