R. Mccullough, R. J. Molz, D. Hawley, Sulzer Metco, Westbury, NY; F. Muggli, Sulzer Innotec, Winterthur, Switzerland
Utilization of a comprehensive validated computer model of a thermal spray process enables an ability to improve, optimize, and fine tune the performance of that thermal spray process. A validated model of the Triplex Pro 200 plasma gun has been used to improve the performance of the actual gun in terms of enhancing gas flow dynamics, thermal management, and overall performance in terms of a robust design. Internal changes to the gun geometry using the model have extended the life of the hardware beyond any current plasma gun. In addition the model has permitted the investigation of the fundamental operation of the gun, specific to the behavior and path of the arcs, as well as the ability to operate the plasma gun, under simulation, in operating regimes that currently cannot be supported by the physical hardware. The model has been run at gas pressures above 14 bar and/or voltages above 300V that currently cannot be obtained with the physical hardware due to equipment limitations to evaluate the potential to extend the operating window of the Triplex Pro 200 gun beyond current levels in terms of particle velocity and temperature. The end result is an improved process tool for applying thermal spray coatings from high temperature ceramics to relatively colder and faster carbides and alloys.
Summary: The use of a comprehensive fluid element model developed for the Triplex Pro 200 Plasma Gun to improve the performance of the actual plasma gun in real world use. Enhancement of gas dynamics through alteration of the internal gun geometry is detailed as well as a look at operating the plasma gun at pressures and voltages beyond what is currently possible with the physical equipment.
