US Patent 12091754 Internally cooled aerodynamically centralizing nozzle (ICCN)

An embodiment is a nozzle for use in additive manufacturing and other applications. The nozzle defines a flow path and is configured to generate a supersonic flow of particles or fluid during operation. The embodiment provides at least one auxiliary flow path port that is configured to introduce an auxiliary flow into the nozzle relative to the flow path that protects an internal surface of the nozzle from wear and corrosion, thereby extending the life of the nozzle for extended periods of continuous operation. An embodiment centralizes particle location along its continuous flow path to achieve small footprint material deposition, thereby increasing 3D print resolution for building more intricate components.