Near infrared measurements in close-coupled gas atomization

Imaging near-infrared radiometry has been employed successfully for radiance measurements of the close-coupled atomization of nickel base superalloys. Detailed temperature and process measurements were made which would otherwise be impossible or impractical. Transient and steady state temperatures have been determined for both the melt and the nozzle in an atomization environment. Infrared pyrometry has also been used to establish that atomization plumes have characteristic radiance profiles that can be used for process control. Radiometry has been demonstrated to provide useful quantitative measurements for process development and to provide opportunities for real time process control feedback. Application techniques and limitations are discussed.