Parameters Affecting the Velocity of Particles in an Abrasive Jet

Abstract

Silicon carbide particles, mesh 60, were introduced at a known time-rate (wp ) into an air stream flowing at a time-rate (wa ) through a parallel sided nozzle of circular cross-section. Particle velocity (Vz ) within the resulting abrasive jet was measured by means of a specially adapted streaking camera technique. Vz was found to be a function of the nozzle length (L), of the distance (z) from the nozzle exit, of the radial position (r) within the jet, and of the loading ratio (wp /wa ). The results indicate that the parameters Vz , L, z, wa and wp are of primary importance in studies of abrasive erosion as well as in the design and operation of air-powered sandblasting equipment.