Three-Dimensional Numerical Modeling of an Ar-N_2 Plasma Arc Inside a Non-Transferred Torch

A three-dimensional numerical model is developed to study the behaviour of an argon-nitrogen plasma arc inside a non-transferred torch. In this model, both the entire cathode and anode nozzle are considered to simulate the plasma arc. The argon-nitrogen plasma arc is simulated for different arc currents and gas flow rates of argon. Various combinations of arc core radius and arc length, which correspond to a given torch power, are predicted. A most feasible combination of the same, which corresponds to an actual physical situation of the arc inside the torch, is identified using the thermodynamic principle of minimum entropy production for a particular torch power. The effect of the arc current and gas flow rate on the plasma arc characteristics and torch efficiency is explained. The effect of the nitrogen content in the plasma gas on the torch power and efficiency is clearly detected. Predicted torch efficiencies are comparable to the measured ones and the effect of the arc current and gas flow rate on predicted and measured efficiencies is almost similar. The efficiency of the torch, cathode and anode losses and core temperature and velocity at the nozzle exit are reported for five different cases.

Notes on Stefan-Maxwell Equation versus Graham's Diffusion Law

Certain prerequisite information on the component fluxes is necessary for solution of the Stefan-Maxwell equation in multicomponent diffusion systems and the Graham's law of diffusion and effusion is often resorted for this purpose. This article addresses solution of the Stefan-Maxwell equation in binary gas systems and explores the necessary conditions for definite solution of concentration profiles and pertinent component fluxes. It is found that there are multiple solutions for component fluxes in contradiction to what specified by the Graham's law of diffusion.The theorem of minimum entropy production in the non-equilibrium thermodynamics is believed instructive in determining the stable steady state solution out of infinite multiple solutions possible under the specified conditions.It is suggested that only when the boundary condition of component concentration is symmetrical in an isothermal binary system, the counter-diffusion becomes equimolar. The Graham's law of diffusion seems not generally valid for the case of isothermal ordinary diffusion.