Spectroscopic analysis of the plasma created by a double-flux tungsten inert gas (TIG) arc plasma torch

Abstract

Measurements of population densities and temperature distributions have been performed in a double-flux tungsten inert gas (TIG) arc plasma column using high-resolution spectroscopy. The experimental conditions have been chosen to mimic typical welding conditions with argon gas. The results show that the plasma is dominated by metallic vapour species in the vicinity of the molten anode, while a nearly pure argon plasma is observed in the cathodic region.