10-04-2017, 08:11 PM
Process for introducing solid particles into fluid streams under precise control. Various embodiment's of the nozzle apparatus are described using a central fluid bore or peripheral solid bores and orifices for mixing the solids into the fluid stream. When multiple fluid ports are used, an area of lower pressure is formed in the central portion of the combined fluid stream, thereby aiding in mixing the solids in the fluid stream. A flow forming nozzle is provided at the outlet of the apparatus to increase the mixing of the solids within the stream of fluid jets. The flow forming nozzle may have both axial and radial freedom of movement to form the fluid-solids stream and auto-alignment, respectively. The process of this invention, in a preferred embodiment, involves the introduction of the solids as a foam into the fluid jet stream. The process of this invention is particularly suitable for abrasive uses of cutting hard materials such as reinforced concrete and steel, as well as their use with a peripheral air sheath for undersea purposes.