Oxygen Oxygen is a chemical element with the symbol "O" and atomic number 8. It is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is essential for the survival of most living organisms, including humans. In laser engraving and cutting processes, oxygen is often used as a assist gas or cutting gas in conjunction with a laser beam to enhance material removal and cutting efficiency. When used as a cutting gas, oxygen reacts with the material being cut, such as metals, to accelerate the cutting process by promoting oxidation and combustion reactions. Oxygen can also be used as a purge gas to displace air and create an inert atmosphere during laser processing to prevent unwanted reactions or contamination. |