Industrial production of powders of copper alloys by impact atomization of a jet of melt

A plant for use in impact atomization of a jet of a metallic melt by fast turning impact blades is described. Using as an example industrial production of powders of copper alloys at a rate of 2–2.5 t/h, several positive elements of the method of impact atomization are demonstrated including high yield of satisfactory fractions (90–92%) with comparatively low electricity consumption (4–8 W per kilogram of melt), as well as small overall dimensions, simplicity, and low cost of the impact atomization plant. The characteristics of deposited bronze powders are presented. It is demonstrated that application of impact atomization for large-scale production of powders of copper, iron, and nickel alloys as well as special nickel-and copper-based powders in an inert medium is highly promising.