Intelligent Sensors for Atomization Processing of Molten Metals and Alloys

Abstract

We briefly introduce the principles of atomization processing of molten metals and alloys, discuss potentially applicable instrumentation, and propose opportunities for developing intelligent sensors for monitoring and control of the process. Particle size and velocity are considered the two most important variables to monitor and control the atomization process. Several on-line sensors suitable for atomization of molten metals and alloys are compared: laser light scattering methods using small angle scattering analysis, moderate angle scattering analysis, and doppler analysis, electrical methods using surface ionization and triboelectric charging, and image analysis. The isokinetic sampling probe is introduced as a direct method to sample powders at the desired point in the atomized spray. Prospects and problems of integrating instruments based on these principles into intelligent processing of materials (IPM) scenarios are discussed.