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.