Particle shape imaging-a method for analyzing particles-in-flight

Summary form only given. PSI (Particle Shape Imaging) is a laser beam shadow technique, developed for the analysis of particles in the thermal spray process. The method is based on the projection of a 3d body into a 2d picture, acquired by an ICCD camera. Using these images the innovative PSI-software determines particle parameters like size, shape, position and velocity. The software employs a variety of newly defined "form factors" for analysis and comparison of the particles These factors (chain code, polar signature, ellipse fit, fourier fit...) allow for making detailed statements about size and surface area which can be linked to particle parameters like phase and temperature on-line thus providing a convenient tool for process control.