Yellowing of the cut surface is a common problem when processing stainless steel with a laser cutting machine. This yellow film is actually a slight oxide layer on the material surface, directly affecting the product's aesthetics. This article will systematically analyze the causes and provide precise solutions.
Core Causes and Solutions
1. Insufficient Auxiliary Gas Purity
Gas issues are the primary factor causing yellowing of the cut surface from a laser cutting machine. When nitrogen purity is insufficient, trace amounts of oxygen will form chromium oxide on the high-temperature cutting surface, producing a yellow interference film.
*Solution: Use high-purity nitrogen of 99.99% or higher. Check the gas path sealing and ensure the gas pressure is stable within the range of 1.5-2.0 MPa.*
2. Improper Process Parameter Settings
Too slow a cutting speed or too high a power will cause the material to overheat, increasing the risk of oxidation.
Solution: Optimize the laser cutting machine parameters, appropriately increase the cutting speed or reduce the power to reduce heat input. Calibrate the focal position to ensure optimal energy density.
3. Abnormal Equipment Hardware Condition
Nose wear or lens contamination can disrupt airflow stability and laser energy distribution.
Solution: Regularly replace the double-layer nozzles, clean the optical lenses, and maintain the laser cutting machine in optimal working condition.
System Troubleshooting Process: When your laser cutting machine produces a yellowish cut surface, please check the following in order:
Prioritize checking gas purity and pressure.
Adjust cutting speed and power parameters.
Check the working status of the nozzles and lenses.
Through targeted optimization, your laser cutting machine will be able to consistently output a perfect, bright, silvery-white cutting effect, significantly improving product quality competitiveness. Maintaining good equipment condition and choosing a high-quality gas supplier are key to ensuring stable operation of the laser cutting machine. If the above does not resolve your issue, please contact RITMAN laser after-sales engineers for assistance.