| 摘要 |
<p>An apparatus (110) for atomising a molten metal to produce metal particles or droplets comprises an annular atomising nozzle (112) which defines an opening (114) through which molten metal flows. The annular atomising nozzle (112) has an annular gas manifold (116) which receives gas from a gas supply. A plurality of apertures (10) extend through the atomising nozzle (112) to direct gas from the gas manifold (116) to intersect the axis of the annular atomising nozzle (112). Instead of the apertures in the atomizing nozzle having sharp edged inlets each aperture is provided with a smooth or contoured inlet end to produce a streamlined flow of atomizing gas from the annular gas manifold 116 into the aperture 120 so that the jets of atomising gas issue from the aperture 120 at a uniform flow rate. The inlet ends (142) of the apertures (120) preferably have a bell mouth shape in cross-section such that the jets of atomising gas issue from the apertures (120) at a uniform flow rate. The apertures (120) are machined to accurate tolerances. This produces more symmetric, predictable and repeatable flow of metallic droplets, or particles, onto the substrate (130) to form an article (132). The apparatus may be used to coat articles with metal. <IMAGE></p> |
