Laser welding with or without shielding gas? Available to Purchase

For years, it was considered imperative to eliminate air from the weld zone in metal welding if a certain product quality was to be achieved. In comparison to conventional MIG/MAG welding, laser welding is a highly modern technology. However, does this change the fact that basic requirements have to be met? Expecting a return on quality and productivity, companies invest millions in laser systems and in related handling and production chains. However, how can this return be achieved if, during laser welding, no shielding gas is applied, i.e. nitrogen and oxygen from the ambient air are used to shield? Both these gases affect product quality. Furthermore, uncontrolled plasma formation impairs productivity. The short-term savings achieved by not using shielding gases may soon lead to a lower return on overall investment.