CHARACTERIZATION OF LARGE VOLUME TWO FLUID NOZZLES USING AEROMETRICS PHASE DOPPLER PARTICLE ANALYZER (PDPA)

A method for characterizing large volume, two fluid atomizers using the Phase Doppler Particle Analyzer (PDPA) was evaluated. This method consists of PDPA measurement optimization to reduce the errors commonly associated with nozzle characterization, such as high number density measurements, beam extinction and multiple scattering. In this experiment drop size, velocity and volume flux data were collected at various radial positions throughout the spray. These tests were conducted in a wind tunnel to simulate duct conditions commonly present in gas conditioning applications, where a large number of these atomizers are often used. The effect of increased atomizing air pressure and liquid flow rate on D₃₂, mean velocity and volume flux was analyzed. The data were reduced to D₃₂ values and plotted as a function of liquid flow rate and air pressure. The type of data reduces the confusion present in the various techniques and presents the gas conditioning process designer with the information needed for efficient system design and operation.