Numerical modeling of torch design for plasma atomization

Abstract

In this study, internal geometry of a non-transferred plasma torch was investigated for plasma atomization. Numerical analysis was performed by a computational fluid dynamics approach for the plasma jet formation. Gas velocity and temperature distribution at the plasma jet formed outside of the torch is very important for plasma atomization. In terms of achieving high jet temperature and jet velocity the internal geometry is the most important factor that affects the efficiency of the atomization. In a high-efficiency plasma torch, the gas velocity and temperature must be as high as possible at the plasma jet. For this reason, the effect of gas flow rate and current value on the gas velocity and temperature in the plasma jet is investigated parametrically. Numerical solutions of the calculated fluid dynamics are given and analysis results are given to determine the most suitable working conditions. The results showed that the internal geometry has significant effect on the plasma jet temperature and velocity at the outside of the torch.