Particle Image Velocimetry Diagnostics for Suspension Plasma Spraying

In this investigation, particle image velocimetry (PIV) diagnostics were employed to analyze the spray produced by a two-fluid atomizer as used in suspension plasma spraying (SPS). This led to a change in the design of the atomizing nozzle in order to achieve a high-speed spray with narrow distributions in droplet size. The resultant spray was characterized and the diagnostic was adapted accordingly. Various suspensions of YSZ powders were then injected into the plasma under different conditions and particle velocities were determined and correlated with the coating morphologies obtained.