Induction Plasma Torch with Higher Plasma Energy Density

Abstract

An induction plasma torch includes a tubular torch body, a tubular insert, a plasma confinement tube, and an annular channel. The tubular lance body has upstream and downstream sections defining respective interior surfaces. The tubular insert is mounted to the inner surface of the downstream section of the tubular lance body. The plasma confinement tube is arranged in the tubular torch body and is coaxial with the tubular torch body. The plasma confinement tube has a tubular wall whose thickness gradually decreases along the axial direction of the plasma flow. The annular passage is defined between the inner surface of the upstream section of the tubular lance body and the inner surface of the insert and the outer surface of the tubular wall of the plasma confinement tube. The cooling channel conveys fluid for cooling the plasma confinement tube.

Description

technical field [0001] This disclosure relates to the field of induction plasma torches. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an induction plasma torch capable of producing higher plasma energy densities while reducing stray arcs. Background technique [0002] The design and performance of inductively coupled plasma torches (so-called inductive plasma torches) have improved considerably over the past few years. Induction plasma torches are currently used worldwide for a variety of applications, from laboratory research and development to large-scale industrial production of high-purity, high-value-added materials. [0003] As an effective tool for material synthesis and processing under high-temperature plasma conditions, induction plasma torches have attracted increasing attention. The basic concept behind the operation of an induction plasma torch is over sixty years old and has steadily evolved from a laboratory tool to a high power device for industry. ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, despite these added properties, the maximum energy density of the plasma in an induction plasma torch is still limited by the maximum temperature that the high thermal conductivity ceramic material of the plasma confinement tube can withstand while maintaining its structural integrity.

[0009] When using an induction plasma torch (e.g. figure 1 Another problem encountered in the induction plasma torch 100) is that, in the induction plasma torch 100 (a) plasma gas discharge region 110 and (b) outlet nozzle ( figure 1 Not shown in ) and / or the reactor on which the induction plasma torch 100 is installed ( figure 1 not shown in the stray arc between the bodies of the

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