Actually, shot flow rate does affect intensity for air blast applications. A lean flow rate will allow higher air velocity and media velocity. Conversley, as the media flow rate increases there is increased turbulance and pressure drop at the nozzle thus lower velocity and peening intensity.
Since the peening is applied to Almen strips we have a complex problem: namely, more dents are being created with higher flow rate and thus shorter time to saturation. But, with lower flow rate the intensity will increase but the rate of coverage is reduced and therefore the time to reach Almen strip saturation will take longer.
The moral of the story is that flow rate needs to be monitored and also controlled in order to maintain a consistent process.
