Does continuous laser welding 4-in-1 machine require gas ?

Hello everyone, today I would like to explain whether the four functions of the continuous 4-in-1 laser welding machine require additional gas during operation, and what the role of the gas is.

First of all, the continuous 4-in-1 laser welding machine includes the following functions:

1.Laser welding of metal (the main function of this equipment

2.Weld seam cleaning

3.Metal surface cleaning

4.Laser cutting of metal

Next, I will explain whether each function requires gas, what type of gas is needed, and what the purpose of the gas is.

No1.Laser welding of metal — Gas is required.

During laser welding, the temperature is extremely high (reaching thousands of degrees in an instant). Without shielding gas:

A：The weld seam will oxidize and turn black

B：Porosity may occur easily

C：The weld strength will decrease

D：The weld seam will not look clean or attractive

Commonly used gases.

No2.Weld seam cleaning (removing black residue and oxidation layer) — Generally does not require gas.

When the continuous laser machine is equipped with a “cleaning function”:

A：It removes the oxidation layer by breaking it apart with high energy

B：It does not involve melting

C：It does not create a molten pool

D：Under normal conditions, gas is not required

Some factories may connect compressed air to reduce dust, but it is not mandatory.

You can operate a laser cleaner without gas , but using compressed air for air-knife protection is recommended for machine longevity.

No.3Metal surface cleaning (rust removal / oil removal / paint removal) — Gas is not required.

Same as weld seam cleaning:

A：No shielding gas is required

B：The laser directly removes the contamination layer

C：Only a power supply is needed.

You can operate a laser cleaner without gas , but using compressed air for air-knife protection is recommended for machine longevity.

No.4 Laser cutting of metal — Gas is absolutely required.

Cutting is different from welding. The gas is not only used for protection, but also responsible for:

A：Blowing away the molten metal

B：Assisting combustion (when using oxygen)

C：Ensuring a clean and smooth cutting edge

Different materials require different types of gas.

Gas must be used for cutting; otherwise, the material cannot be cut through.

I hope everyone can have the machine that suits them best.