Flow Simulation as a Support to Predict Shape of Plasma Beam Affected by the Nozzle Geometry

Abstract

This paper deals with flow simulation of plasma beam shape affected by the different nozzle geometry. The flow simulations for different nozzles geometry were made in simulation software Ansys-Fluent. The evaluation of flow simulations was based on comparing shapes of the flow media out from the modified nozzle orifice against reference nozzle. There were investigated 8 different modification of nozzle orifice. Modified nozzle n. 7 (in the shape of a Laval nozzle) has achieved significant improvement from all simulated. There were observed 3 cores of plasma beam, which could help blow dross out from cutting gap. Investigated results serve for further research.