Analyzing Possible Relative Positions of a Two-jet Arc Plasma Torch and the Heated Metal Workpiece

The article considers mathematical modeling of the plasma-assisted centrifugal sputtering of a heated workpiece, commonly known as the plasma rotating electrode process (PREP), for producing spherically shaped metal powders, which are used as raw material for additive technologies. A two-jet plasma torch is used as a thermal energy source generating transferred electric arc that closes through a rotating metal workpiece. A newly developed 3D stationary mathematical model of the plasma processes considered is described, including the model assumptions, basic equations, and boundary conditions. A polygonal mesh is used for computations; examples of the meshes used are shown. The computations were carried out for five different cases of the mutual position of a two-jet arc plasma torch and the heated metal workpiece. The article presents the simulation results, including those in distributed and integral forms. An analysis of the results obtained is carried out, and recommendations for choosing the mutual position of the two-jet plasma torch and heated workpiece in which the most effective heating conditions take place have been formulated.