MODELING DROPLET IMPACT IN PLASMA SPRAY PROCESSES

A model is described to predict the splat shape in plasma spray proces s. The results show that the impact process is comprised of spreading and recoil. The degree of spreading increases with Re-.25; while sprea ding time is proportional to the ratio of the initial diameter to the impact speed. Under most conditions, simultaneous solidification plays a secondary role in arresting the spreading. Extension of the model t o 3-dimensional situations and some preliminary results are also discu ssed.