Effect of a gas-vortex stabilization method on the kinematic properties of the jet in metal-cutting plasmatrons

Abstract

Various methods of gas-vortex stabilization in plasma cutting torches are investigated. The results of the study demonstrate the dependence of the angle of gas injection into the nozzle on the kinematic and kinetic characteristics of plasma jet and, consequently, on the cutting parameters. Increased radial velocity component at the swirler output provides better uniformity of the velocity distribution and kinetic properties of the jet in the affected zone of a cut metal. As a conclusion, it is recommended to use the suggested narrow-jet-plasma technology for cutting thin sheet metals. © 2019 IOP Publishing Ltd.