Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) has transformed the world of advanced manufacturing, enabling the production of complex metal parts with unmatched precision. Whether it’s aerospace brackets, medical implants, or high-performance industrial components, LPBF demands a tightly controlled environment — and that’s where nitrogen gas plays a pivotal role.
WHY NITROGEN GAS IS CRUCIAL IN LPBF
LPBF builds metal parts layer by layer by selectively melting fine metal powder with a high-powered laser. During this process, an inert atmosphere is essential to:
- Prevent oxidation of molten metal
- Maintain powder quality for recyclability and reuse
- Achieve dense, defect-free parts with optimal mechanical properties
- Protect laser optics and sensitive machine components from metal vapor and spatter
Nitrogen is widely used as a shielding gas in LPBF, especially for ferrous alloys and some nickel or cobalt alloys, due to its availability, cost-effectiveness, and ability to maintain an inert environment.
NITROGEN GAS PURITY REQUIREMENTS FOR DIFFERENT METALS IN LPBF
The required nitrogen gas purity depends heavily on the type of metal being printed.
| Metal / Alloy | Recommended Gas | Purity Requirement | Notes |
| Stainless Steels | Nitrogen | ≥ 99.9% (3.0 grade) | Common for cost-efficient shielding |
| Tool Steels / Maraging | Nitrogen | ≥ 99.99% (4.0 grade) | Low oxygen to avoid embrittlement |
| Nickel & Cobalt Alloys | Nitrogen / Argon | ≥ 99.999% (5.0 grade) | Often use ultra-high purity nitrogen |
| Titanium & Aluminum | Argon | ≥ 99.999% (5.0 grade) Argon | Avoid nitrogen; forms brittle nitrides |
The nitrogen gas purity levels specified above are general guidelines and may vary depending on the specific grades, chemistries, and quality requirements of the metal alloys used. For all these metals, controlling dew point (moisture) is equally critical — typically aiming for ≤ -40°C to prevent microstructural defects. Nitrogen gas pressure requirement can be in the range 4–10 barg (varies by machine).
WHY ON-SITE NITROGEN GENERATION IS THE SMART CHOICE
Traditionally, manufacturers rely on liquid nitrogen dewars or high-pressure cylinders, which bring logistical challenges, safety risks, and ongoing costs. An on-site nitrogen generation system, using Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) technology, is a far superior solution for LPBF operations:
- Consistent purity tailored to your process (up to 99.999%)
- Dew points down to -40°C or better with integrated dryers
- Eliminates delivery delays, rental costs, and cylinder handling risks
- Environmentally friendly — reduces carbon footprint from deliveries
- Scalable & flexible, growing with your production needs
HOW CANADA GAS SOLUTIONS HELPS
At Canada Gas Solutions Inc., we specialize in designing turnkey on-site nitrogen systems that are custom-engineered for LPBF applications. Whether you’re printing stainless steel aerospace brackets or cobalt-chrome dental implants, we:
- Assess your exact gas flow, purity, pressure and dew point requirements based on your metal alloys and printing machine specifications.
- Design and supply PSA nitrogen gas generating systems paired with desiccant dryers to meet strict moisture control targets.
- Ensure long-term efficiency, reliability, and cost savings — with local support across Canada.
Nitrogen isn’t just a supporting utility in LPBF — it’s a process-critical gas that directly impacts your part quality, powder longevity, and operational success. By switching to on-site nitrogen gas generation, you gain control over your supply chain, reduce operating costs, and guarantee the exact purity your application demands. At Canada Gas Solutions, we’re proud to help advanced manufacturers across Canada move to smarter, safer, and more economical gas solutions.
Enquire Now
