Measurement and mapping of cavitation energy in leather and Material Processing vessels using an ultrasonic horn

Ultrasound technology is widely studied for advanced manufacturing. In the present paper, measurement, analysis of ultrasound-induced cavitation and characterization of energy distribution in horn-type ultrasonic probe (20 kHz) are presented. Mapping was made with variation in ultrasound power (USP) [150-500 W], using ultrasonic cavitation energy (UCE) sensor in a cylindrical process vessel of two capacities (1 and 3 L) and energy profiles plotted as 3D graphical representation for different conditions (d(p), H-s, V-s) applicable to any given generic process. The results indicate maximum UCE at center of the vessel, coinciding with ultrasound probe axis. There is about 8-16.7% reduction of UCE due to the presence of leather for 3-L and 1-L beaker for various USPs. However, average UCE increases with an increase in USP 150 to 500 W for 3-L beaker, with and without leather. Ultrasound absorption coefficient (alpha) in goat leather has been calculated to be in the range of 9.5-10 and 19.5-10.4 (m(2)) Sabins, respectively, for 3-L and 1-L beaker experiments. In 1-L beaker, distance from US probe tip to leather surface at d = 3 and 4 cm provides better UCE: 8.8 and 6.3 W/cm(2), respectively, and corresponding better enhancement factor in %Exhaustion: 32.3 and 28.7 in leather dyeing with ultrasound, compared to control. Prediction model of UCE from ultrasound power density, independent of configuration and regression model for various USPs was proposed, found to be comparable with experimental values. This analysis could be useful in design and development of ultrasound system for scale-up in a broader perspective and for leather in specific.

Automated summary

Ultrasound technology was used to study ultrasound-induced cavitation, with energy distribution characteristics under different conditions presented. Results showed that the presence of leather decreased ultrasound cavitation energy, but increasing ultrasound power could enhance the average cavitation energy.