Comprehensive Mathematical Modeling of the Process of Surface Hardening of Rotating Parts in a Plasma Torch with a Liquid Electrode

The article presents a complex mathematical model of the surface hardening process of rotating parts in a plasma torch with a liquid electrode. The model takes into account key physical aspects, including electrical breakdown, plasma dynamics, heat transfer, phase transformations in the material and the effect of part rotation on the hardening uniformity. The proposed equations describe the conditions for the formation of an arc discharge, heat balance, plasma ionization, as well as the kinetics of heating and cooling. The results of modeling implemented in the Matlab environment confirm the possibility of achieving high surface hardness due to martensitic transformation at a cooling rate above 200°C/s. The model allows optimizing hardening parameters such as plasma torch power, rotation speed and exposure time, which helps to reduce the number of experiments and increase the efficiency of the technology.