| EPSRC Reference: |
GR/K86732/01 |
| Title: |
A MICROWAVE GENERATED PLASMA SOURCE FOR MATERIALS PROCESSING |
| Principal Investigator: |
Lucas, Professor J |
| Other Investigators: |
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| Project Partners: |
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| Department: |
Electrical Engineering and Electronics |
| Organisation: |
University of Liverpool |
| Scheme: |
Standard Research (Pre-FEC) |
| Starts: |
01 October 1996 |
Ends: |
30 September 1999 |
Value (£): |
190,854
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| EPSRC Research Topic Classifications: |
| Manufacturing Machine & Plant |
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
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The overall aim of the project is to research the potential of a microwave generated plasma torch (MPT) for the welding of both metals and non-metals. Based upon the results of previous preliminary work the arc plasma will be generated from a nozzle, situated within a microwave tuned cavity, through which gas flows. The workpiece is situated outside the microwave cavity close to the exit nozzle. The arc plasma is induced to leave the cavity by a combination of the gas flow rate and leakage electromagnetic fields. Microwave frequencies of 2.46 GHz will be used to provide a compact microwave arc welding torch suitable for manual or automated welding. Case studies will compare the performance of the microwave generated torch operating at frequencies of 2.46 GHz with that given by a conventional gas shielded arc for a range of industrial applications for welding and cutting. Special consideration will be given to the cutting of non-metals (eg, ceramics, carbon, wood, etc) especially using pulsed mode operation, which provides a combination of heat and shock waves. A selected range of surface treatments will be undertaken. These will include annealing hardening, removal of surface residue and deoxidisation.
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Key Findings |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
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| Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
| Summary |
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| Date Materialised |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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| Project URL: |
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| Further Information: |
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| Organisation Website: |
http://www.liv.ac.uk |