Physics of an arc in cross flow

Arcs in cross flow are encountered in a number of applications, for example in wire are spraying. Optimization of such processes has relied in the past on an empirical approach and on intuition based on a qualitative understanding of the process. A theoretical treatment of an are exposed to a cold gas Row perpendicular to its axis requires a three-dimensional (3D) formulation. A computer code has been developed to solve the 3D conservation equations for an atmospheric pressure argon are in cross Row, and this code has been validated by comparison with previously published experimental results. Results have been obtained for typical conditions encountered in a wire are spray situation, are current 100 to 200 A, and arcing gaps of 1 and 2 mm, and varying cross-flow velocities. Results are presented in the form of temperature and velocity fields, and current density and potential distributions. it is apparent that the location of the highest temperature does nor coincide with that of the highest electric power dissipation because of transverse convective effects, and that the anode attachment is farther downstream than the cathode attachment. The results clearly indicate that 3D modelling is required to capture the physical effects of the are in cross now, and that the code can be used to illustrate the parametric dependences of the plasma Row in various cross-how situations.