What is the benefit of a laser system that has the air assist feature?

Most new laser systems have the air assist feature, which not only reduces flaming during cutting but also provides positive air flow over the lens and optics to reduce the need for cleaning. Higher end laser systems also could switch between compressed air and nitrogen by selecting a feature in the print driver software. The inert nature of nitrogen is a huge benefit when laser cutting and often allows cutting speeds to increase due to the efficiency increase of the beam.

   —Coherent