Three dimensional computational fluid dynamic simulation of a segmented Non-transferred Arc Plasma Torch

Abstract

Three dimensional computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulation of a segmented non transferred arc plasma torch is done for the purpose of computing heat load to various torch components and obtaining the temperature and velocity profile at the exit of the torch. The region inside the torch was simulated along with simulation of water flow channels. To obtain the current flow and resulting joule heating, electric potential equation is solved inside the torch region.  Simulation runs for several values of arc current and plasma gas flow rate are done and results are compared.