Fundamentals of Close Coupled Atomization for Battery Metal Powders
Close coupled atomization controls melt superheat, aspiration pressure, and supersonic gas shear to yield ultrafine spherical powders for battery manufacturing.
Laser Diffraction Psd
Meaning
Characterization of powder batches is essential to ensure consistent packing and flow during component fabrication. The primary technique for this evaluation is laser diffraction psd, which measures the volume-based size distribution of the particles. This method provides rapid feedback to atomizer operators during production runs.
Accurate sizing prevents blockages in additive manufacturing powder feeders.
Measurement Principle
Scattering of light occurs when a laser beam strikes the metallic particles in the sample flow. Large particles scatter light at narrow angles with high intensity, while small particles scatter light at wider angles. Detectors measure these angles to calculate the equivalent spherical diameter of the powder.
This optical response is interpreted using Mie theory or the Fraunhofer approximation.
Operational Method
Powder dispersion is achieved using either dry air pressure or a liquid carrier medium. Dry dispersion is suitable for free-flowing powders, whereas wet dispersion helps prevent the agglomeration of very fine particles. The choice between these methods depends on the material density and the target size range.
Consistent sample feeding ensures repeatable measurements across different batches.
Industrial Standard
Sourcing specifications define the tenth, fiftieth, and ninetieth percentiles of the cumulative distribution. These metrics are used to accept or reject incoming powder shipments.