Atlas Copco launches new nitrogen generation range for laser cutting

Atlas Copco Compressors has launched its new LC N2 nitrogen generation system in the UK, offering metal fabrication operations a compact, high-pressure solution designed specifically for the demands of modern fibre laser cutting.

Developed exclusively for laser cutting applications, the LC N2 13-50 provides a continuous, on-site supply of high-purity nitrogen at the pressure, flow and quality required for fast cutting and clean, oxide-free edges. The system is designed to support those manufacturers seeking improved cut quality, faster throughput and greater control over operating costs, as nitrogen demand continues to rise.

Nitrogen plays a critical role in laser cutting, particularly for stainless steel and aluminium, where it prevents oxidation at the cut edge and supports downstream processes such as welding, painting and coating. As fibre laser technology has advanced, higher cutting speeds, increased laser power and larger nozzle sizes have significantly increased nitrogen consumption, making gas supply a major cost and performance driver for fabrication shops.

The LC N2 addresses these challenges through an all-in-one, high-pressure design that combines nitrogen generation, boosting, filtration, regulation, high pressure cylinder storage and hoses within a single, compact footprint. The cylinder storage packs can be laid flat or stood up to fit the available space. Operating at pressures up to 300 bar, the system is sized to meet average nitrogen demand rather than peak flow, with integrated high-pressure storage used to manage fluctuations. This approach allows the overall system size, energy use and cost to be reduced without compromising cutting performance.

Designed for ease of installation, the LC N2 is supplied as a plug-and-play system that can be connected to an existing compressed air supply or paired with a dedicated compressor and air tank where required. An advanced controller enables remote monitoring of nitrogen production, usage and system status, helping operators maintain visibility and control over their gas use.

Andrew Butler, National Sales Manager for Industrial Gases at Atlas Copco, said: “Laser cutting businesses are under pressure to deliver faster throughput, consistent edge quality and predictable running costs. Nitrogen supply sits at the centre of all three. The LC N2 is suitable for the real-world demands of laser cutting, giving users the right purity and pressure, exactly when they need it, without the uncertainty and ongoing cost of delivered gas.”

He 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.”

Featuring a modular design, the LC N2 allows for future capacity expansion and improved service access. Side and top panels can be removed to simplify maintenance, while storage modules can be added as production requirements grow.

The LC N2 forms part of a wider laser cutting portfolio from Atlas Copco, which also includes the new LC Guard filtration system. This product is designed to ensure nitrogen or oxygen quality and protect the laser head from potential contamination from the bottle or cylinder. Lastly, the LC Mix gas mixer is a mobile, plug and play unit, designed for users who prefer a combination of nitrogen and oxygen. The gas mix can be set automatically, or manually with no mixing vessel needed, to unlock faster, higher quality cutting.

The LC N2 nitrogen generation system, LC Guard and LC Mix are available now to customers across the UK. For further information, visit: Atlas Copco Laser Cutting