A simple model of the process of cutting metal with a gas assisted laser beam has been derived with the principle objective of understanding the role of the the gas both from its kenietics and its chemistry. The model considers the cut front as a surface phenomena for reaction and absorption. The effects of oxide films, polarisation and front shape have been analysed. It is shown that very small levels of impurity in the oxygen would be expected to have a significant effect on the cutting performance. Also with inert gas there are advantages in using high pressures.

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