Fuzzy Logic Analysis of Alumina–Titania Deposition Yield During APS Process

The behavior modeling of Atmospheric Plasma Spray (APS) process requires a global approach which considers interrelated non-linear relationships between coating characteristics / properties in-service and process parameters (power, feedstock injection, kinematics, etc.). Such an approach would permit to reduce the development costs. To reach this objective, the knowledge of the interactions between process parameters plays a relevant role in the optimization. This work intends to develop a behavior model based on fuzzy logic concepts. Here, the model considers the deposition yield as the result of the process and it establishes relationships with power process parameter (arc current intensity, plasma gas total flow rate, hydrogen content) on the basis of fuzzy rules. The model hence permits to discriminate the role and the effects of each power process parameters. The modeling results are compared to experimental data. The specific case of the deposition of alumina-titania (Al2O3-TiO2, 13% by weight) by Atmospheric Plasma Spraying (APS) is considered.