Temperature analysis by moving heat source during plasma arc cutting process: an analytical approach

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to work exhibits the temperature distribution over the surface of the workpiece during plasma arc cutting process. Design/methodology/approach The moving heat source is taken into consideration for calculating the heat created by plasma arc. The heat is generated at the plasma – liquid metal boundary. The heat of fusion is also considered for estimation because of molten layer separates the plasma and solid layer. This causes to hamper the heat transfer towards the melting front. Eliminating the heat resistance may calculation error at high cutting speed. Power required to melt the material depends on the speed of the cut. Findings Higher cutting speed increases the power required. The temperature drop over the layer of molten front increases as the speed of cut increases at higher Peclet number. Different thickness of the molten layer was taken for calculation i.e. zero thickness, 10 and 20 per cent. Originality/value The estimated results are shown in non-dimensional form. So, the method can be applied for any other types of material.