Comparison of ultrasonic and other atomization methods in metal powder production

Purpose The results showed that the UA powder has a finer average particle size with a narrower statistical distribution of particles than those made by the GA method. Because the UA powder has a higher sphericity and lower porosity, Generally, UA offers better-quality powders in terms of properties such as higher tap density, better flowability and low oxygen content. Design/methodology/approach Ultrasonic atomization (UA) with melting raw material by an electric arc. Characterisation of the powders: particle size distribution (PSD), density, and flowability were carried out. Other parameters, such as microstructure, deviation in the chemical composition and powder surface morphology, were also investigated. Findings The results showed that the UA powder has a finer average particle size with a narrower statistical distribution of particles than those made by the GA method. Because the UA powder has a higher sphericity and lower porosity, Generally, UA offers better-quality powders in terms of properties such as higher tap density, better flowability and low oxygen content. Research limitations/implications As an example of semi-industrial scale application of the UA system, the Ti6Al4V and TiAl powders were produced after remelting the wire. The UA system is commercially available for processing any metallic material. Practical implications The test campaign results showed that the Ti6Al4V powder produced by the ultrasonic atomisation has a similar or better quality as those available from large-scale gas atomisation plants. Originality/value The new method of UA powder production was analysed in terms of key powder parameters. The properties of the titanium-based powder produced this way were analysed with a view to future applications.