Fibre Laser Gas Calculator
Download the calculator for your workshop computer
Use AXIS Gas Comparison offline on the computer used by your machine operator. The desktop calculator runs independently of your laser controller and stores settings locally. Version 1.4 is an initial desktop release.
Download and use notice
Download, installation and use are at your own risk, subject to rights that cannot lawfully be excluded. Plasquip takes reasonable care in preparing this software, but does not warrant that it is error-free, compatible with every computer or suitable for a particular application.
The calculator provides estimated gas flow and costs for comparison only. Results are not guaranteed consumption or savings figures, machine-control instructions or safety advice. Nozzle-design factors are indicative and are not manufacturer-calibrated.
To the maximum extent permitted by law, Plasquip excludes liability for loss or damage arising from downloading, installing or using the software or relying on its results, including data loss, business interruption and loss of production or profits. Nothing in this notice excludes, restricts or modifies any consumer guarantee, right or remedy under the Australian Consumer Law or other applicable law that cannot lawfully be excluded, restricted or modified.
Check compatibility, back up important data and obtain approval from the person responsible for the machine computer before installing. Follow your workplace IT and security policies.
Mac download
macOS 11 or later · Intel and Apple Silicon · approximately 457 KB
- Download and unzip the file.
- Drag AXIS Gas Comparison.app into Applications.
- Read the included START_HERE instructions, then open the app.
Release status: the Mac app has been launch-checked on Apple Silicon. Intel operation has not been tested. It is not Apple Developer ID signed or notarised, so macOS may block it or show a security warning. If blocked, consult your IT administrator; the online calculator remains available above.
Windows PC version
Windows 10/11 · 64-bit (x64) · approximately 151 MB · hosted on Dropbox
- Download the ZIP and choose Extract All into a permanent folder on your PC.
- Open the AXIS Gas Comparison-win32-x64 folder and run AXIS Gas Comparison.exe.
- Create a desktop shortcut if required. Keep the executable and all supporting files together.
This is a portable app, not an installer. Read the included START_HERE instructions before use. Once downloaded and extracted, the calculator works offline.
Initial release: this Windows package has been built and inspected but has not yet been run on a Windows PC. The executable is not publisher-signed, so Windows or workplace security software may block it or show a warning. Have your IT administrator assess it before use on a machine-control computer. The online calculator remains available above.
Compare fibre laser cutting gas consumption
The Plasquip fibre laser gas calculator helps you compare the estimated gas consumption of two cutting setups before making changes on your machine. See how nozzle diameter, gas pressure and cutting speed affect gas use per metre of cut, consumption over 15 minutes and optional gas costs. Use it to explore potential savings with nitrogen, oxygen or compressed air.
This is a comparison tool for workshop operators and businesses reviewing fibre laser running costs. It does not select cutting parameters or predict cut quality. Start with settings that produce an acceptable cut on the same material and thickness, then compare suitable alternatives.
How to use the gas calculator
Select your cutting gas and nozzle design, then enter the nozzle diameter in millimetres, flowing pressure at the cutting head in bar gauge, and cutting speed in metres per minute. Put your existing settings under Current setup and the alternative settings under Proposed setup. One nozzle-design selection applies to both, keeping the comparison single-to-single or double-to-double.
To compare estimated costs, enter your gas price in Australian dollars per normal cubic metre (Nm³). Leave it blank to compare consumption only. The calculator defines Nm³ at 0°C and 1.01325 bar absolute, so your price must use the same volume basis.
Understanding the results
Gas saving per metre compares consumption for the same cutting distance and includes changes in cutting speed. Gas over 15 minutes compares continuous gas flow for a fixed time; faster cutting may cover more distance during that period. Optional cost figures apply your entered gas price to the estimated volumes.
All figures are estimates. Actual consumption varies with nozzle geometry, gas delivery and machine conditions. The double-layer profile uses an illustrative flow allowance, not a calibrated rating for every nozzle. Piercing, purging, pauses, leaks and acceleration are excluded. Use the results as a starting point for comparison, then confirm performance and consumption on your equipment.
Frequently asked questions
How does nozzle size affect gas consumption?
In this model, flow scales with the square of nozzle diameter when gas, pressure and design remain unchanged. Reducing a 4.0 mm opening to 3.0 mm therefore gives approximately 43.8% less estimated flow. A smaller nozzle must still suit the cutting application.
Does faster cutting reduce gas use?
At unchanged nozzle and pressure settings, faster cutting reduces estimated gas use per metre. It does not reduce the estimated flow rate or the gas used during 15 minutes of continuous flow.
Why compare the same nozzle design?
Different nozzle designs shape gas delivery differently and suit different cutting conditions. Sharing one design keeps the comparison focused on nozzle size, pressure and speed.
Explore our AXIS fibre laser cutters, compare supply options with the nitrogen generator cost calculator, or contact Plasquip for help with your application.