Numerical Modeling Of Water Atomization: Impact Of Pressure And Apex Angle On Powder Production And Process Stability

Authors:

Baraa Qaddah (IRT-M2P, France)
Raphael Durand (IRT-M2P, France)
Pierre Chapelle (Institut Jean Lamour, France)
Bernard Dussoubs (Institut Jean Lamour, France)
Benjamin Luiset (Metalor, France)
Victor Cribier (Metalor, France)
Nicolas Rimbert (LEMTA, France)

Abstract:

Water atomization is a widely used technique for metal powders production in various industrial applications. It is particularly effective for generating irregularly shaped powders, suitable for materials that do not require spherical morphology. In this process, a high-pressure water jet is directed at a stream of molten metal, breaking it into droplets that solidify rapidly due to the water’s high cooling rate.A numerical model is developed to simulate the water jet dynamics. The study focuses on the influence of water pressure and nozzle apex angle on the atomization efficiency and powder size. Results from the numerical model are validated using data from nozzle suppliers. Increasing the water pressure or apex angle increases water velocity and thus enhances fine powder production. Additionally, the stability of the process is examined, highlighting the critical value of the apex angle that determines the overall performance of the atomization process.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59499/EP256766672