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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 February 2011
A mathematical model for the analysis and design of RF, and hybrid DC/RF plasma torches for the thermal spraying of materials under conditions of high particle loading is presented. The model is based upon a numerical solution of Maxwell's equations for the electromagnetic field, the turbulent Navier/Stokes equations for the plasma velocity field, and the thermal energy balance equation for the temperature field. The interaction between the plasma and the injected particles is calculated using the Particle Source in Cell technique. The trajectories and thermal histories of nickel particles injected into a hybrid torch are compared to those of particles injected into a conventional RF torch. It is demonstrated that hybrid torches possess some superior characteristics over conventional plasma spray systems and may constitute a viable future technology for the spraying of advanced materials.