Glossary · Accessories

Laser

Air assist

An airflow that blows onto the work spot directly at the laser head. It blows away smoke and flames and gives cleaner cuts.

Explained in more detail

A pump or compressor blows air through a nozzle on the laser head onto the cutting point. This removes smoke and particles from the beam path, cools the cut edge, prevents open flames and protects the lens from deposits. For diode lasers, 10 to 30 l/min is common, while CO₂ machines often work with significantly more air or a workshop compressor. High airflow makes sense for cutting, while engraving usually needs less so that the smoke plume does not spread across the surface. Many controllers switch air assist on and off automatically for each layer.

Where does the term come from?

The name says it: air that assists the cut.

In practice

• When cutting wood, air assist reduces burn marks and noticeably reduces the number of passes needed.
• When engraving photos, too much air can spread smoke across the surface and cause streaks. In that case, reduce the airflow.
• Check regularly that the nozzle is clear and centred to the beam. Misaligned nozzles clip the beam.
• Air assist does not replace fume extraction: the smoke is only blown away, not removed.

Not to be confused

Air assist is not extraction. One blows air onto the cut, the other draws smoke out of the machine or room.

Frequently asked questions

Do you need air assist on a laser?

For cutting yes, the edges become cleaner and there is less charring. For light engraving it also works without, but the lens then gets dirty faster.

How much air does air assist need?

For diode lasers, 10 to 30 l/min is usual. More is often better for cutting, while a weak airflow is enough for engraving.