Fluctuation of arc plasma in arc plasma torch with multiple cathodes*

Abstract

Fluctuation phenomena commonly exist in arc plasmas, limiting the application of this technology. In this paper, we report an investigation of fluctuations of arc plasmas in an arc plasma torch with multiple cathodes. Time-resolved images of the plasma column and anode arc roots are captured. Variations of the arc voltage, plasma column diameter, and pressure are also revealed. The results indicate that two well-separated fluctuations exist in the arc plasma torch. One is the high-frequency fluctuation (of several thousand Hz), which arises from transferring of the anode arc root. The other is the low-frequency fluctuation (of several hundred Hz), which may come from the pressure variation in the arc plasma torch. Initial analysis reveals that as the gas flow rate changes, the low-frequency fluctuation shows a similar variation trend with the Helmholtz oscillation. This oscillation leads to the shrinking and expanding of the plasma column. As a result, the arc voltage shows a sinusoidal fluctuation.