Air Assist Question

[Bob Kline]

For the first time since I got my Epilog Mini 18 about 2 years ago, I ran it without also running the compressor for the air assist. Aside from it being much quieter, nothing about the engraving (on Flexibrass) changed. This leads me to believe that the air assist isn't really necessary when engraving Flexibrass. is this true and when is it advisable to use it?
Thanks

[Frank Corker]

The only thing I ever use air assist for is cutting wood. I cut all different thicknesses of acrylic but I don't use the air assist.

[Joe Pelonio]

I only use it for cutting, and do use it for cutting everything. I have never seen a flareup from engraving.

[Mark Winlund]

In my experience, the air keeps the lenses clean much longer. Depends on your machine.

Mark

[Larry Bratton]

When I cut, I run it. When I engrave I don't. Like Joe, I have never seen a flame up, but he's been at it a lot longer that me for sure.