Abstract: A method and apparatus for the laser cutting of hollow metal workpieces to minimize or eliminate residue or dross adherence to the inner circumference of the workpiece is disclosed. Coolant is pumped through the apparatus to contact the inner portion of the workpiece before and during laser cutting. The dross which forms during cutting drops into the coolant, solidifies and is flushed out of the workpiece along with the coolant. The coolant and dross are then collected by a trough, which funnels them to the coolant tank where the dross is removed by a filter and the coolant recycled. In a preferred embodiment, a microprocessor controls the laser cutting and coolant flow operations.