Atlas Copco Compressors has introduced its LC N2 nitrogen generation system to the UK market, targeting metal fabrication operations with a compact, high-pressure solution tailored for modern fibre laser cutting. The LC N2 13-50 delivers a continuous, on-site supply of high-purity nitrogen, meeting the pressure, flow, and quality demands for quick cutting and clean, oxide-free edges. This system supports manufacturers seeking improved cut quality, faster throughput, and better cost management as nitrogen demand continues to escalate.
In laser cutting, particularly for stainless steel and aluminium, nitrogen is crucial for preventing oxidation at the cut edge and aiding downstream processes such as welding, painting, and coating. Advancements in fibre laser technology have led to higher cutting speeds and increased laser power, significantly boosting nitrogen consumption. Consequently, gas supply has become a critical cost and performance factor for fabrication shops.
The LC N2 system addresses these challenges with an all-in-one, high-pressure design integrating nitrogen generation, boosting, filtration, regulation, high-pressure cylinder storage, and hoses within a compact footprint. Cylinder storage can be configured to fit available space, operating at pressures up to 300 bar. The system is optimised for average nitrogen demand, using integrated high-pressure storage to manage fluctuations, reducing overall system size, energy use, and costs without compromising cutting performance.
The LC N2 is designed for easy installation as a plug-and-play system, connectable to an existing compressed air supply or paired with a dedicated compressor and air tank if necessary. An advanced controller allows remote monitoring of nitrogen production, usage, and system status, providing operators with enhanced gas use visibility and control.
Andrew Butler, National Sales Manager for Industrial Gases at Atlas Copco, stated, “Laser cutting businesses are under pressure to deliver faster throughput, consistent edge quality, and predictable running costs. Nitrogen supply is central to all three. The LC N2 is suitable for the real-world demands of laser cutting, providing the right purity and pressure exactly when needed, without the uncertainty and ongoing cost of delivered gas.” He further added, “By producing nitrogen on-site, customers gain control over a critical process input. They reduce reliance on external deliveries, improve resilience, and create a platform that can scale as laser capacity increases. For many users, this is no longer just a cost decision, but a strategic one.”
The modular design of the LC N2 allows for future capacity expansion and improved service access. Side and top panels can be removed for easier maintenance, and storage modules can be added as production needs grow. This system is part of Atlas Copco’s broader laser cutting portfolio, which includes the LC Guard filtration system to ensure gas quality and protect the laser head, and the LC Mix gas mixer, a mobile unit for users preferring a nitrogen-oxygen combination.
The LC N2 nitrogen generation system, along with the LC Guard and LC Mix, is now available to UK customers. For further details, visit www.atlascopco.com.
