Feasibility Study of Machining with Ultrahigh-Pressure Directly Pumped Abrasive Slurries

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This proposal addresses a new concept of forming abrasive- waterjets that may prove to be another breakthrough in machining technology. Premixed slurries will be directly pumped up to 55,000 psi to form jets with a power density an order of magnitude higher than current abrasive-waterjet systems. The potential advantages of direct-pumping nozzles include: 1) high energy transfer efficiency, (2) capability of forming abrasive- dense jets, and (3) capability of forming jets with diameters as small as 0.003 inch (versus 0.030 inch for current abrasive- water jets). An experimental setup will be prepared, and an experimental investigation will be conducted to recognize some features of the flow characteristics of high-pressure slurry jets and their machining capabilities. In addition, a technical and economical analysis will be conducted. The overall feasibility of high-pressure pumping of abrasive slurry will be assessed and areas of future investigation will be determined.