Computational Modeling Of Turbulent Jet Generated by Non-transferred Plasma Torch

Abstract

The plasma jet produced by a non-transferred plasma torch may initially appear steady and laminar, but it undergoes significant turbulence as it interacts with the surrounding atmosphere. Within the plasma torch, the jet begins as laminar; however, upon exiting, it transitions into a turbulent flow, extending into a long, wavy structure as it develops. This paper explores the complexities of computational modeling for non-transferred plasma torches, focusing on the challenges of simulating the multiphysics and multiphase interactions at the outlet and tracing the evolution of the plasma jet. The computational analysis uses COMSOL Multiphysics software on a 2D axisymmetric geometry, with steady-state simulations incorporating various turbulence models. A comparative assessment of the results from each turbulence model is provided, highlighting their respective strengths and limitations. Although the diffusion of the turbulent jet at the outlet is presented, the turbulence models employed in this study only offer time-averaged values, rather than a detailed breakdown of the complete jet structure. The paper concludes by validating the computationally obtained velocity magnitudes against experimental data, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the simulation results.