We have developed a computational model that can be used in the spray characterization of splashplate atomizers. The computer model, called Simu/ent, can accurately simulate the impingement of a liquid jet on the plate of a splashplate nozzle, and the formation of the liquid film and subsequent droplets. To va lidate the model, we compared simulation results with experimental measurements for the fi lm thickness and velocity distributions in a typical splashp late nozzle. Close agreement between numerical results and measurements validated the model and its underlying assumptions. We also developed correlations between liquid film characteristics at the nozzle exit and the spray mean drop sizes. This was done by running many different numerical simulations on typical splashplate nozzles using the developed computer code. The correlations were obtained by performing a close inspection of the numerical results in order to extract all information regarding the liquid film and spray. The results of the developed code were combined with correlations to get spray drop size distribution in a more practical approach with less computational time and efforts. This capability along with the program module we developed for analyzing the output data have turned the developed code into an efficient and practical tool in the design of splashplate nozzles. This paper presents mathematical formulations, results of model validation, and the spray drop size distribution for a typical ALSTOM splashplate nozzle.

Keywords