Air atomizing nozzle

Abstract

A nozzle assembly for converting liquid from a liquid source into a spray flow using air from an air pressure source to atomize the liquid. The nozzle assembly comprises a housing having an air inlet for connection to the air pressure source, a liquid inlet for connection to the liquid source, and an outlet. A series of first air passages are formed in the housing for receiving air from the air inlet. The first air passages communicate with the outlet and are configured to generate a swirled air stream. A second air passage in the housing is also provided and is configured to generate a linear air stream. There is a liquid passage for receiving liquid from the liquid inlet. The liquid passage contracts to a reduced cross-sectional area adjacent the housing outlet. The first and second air passages and the liquid passage terminate in a common atomization zone adjacent the housing outlet where liquid flowing through the liquid passage is atomized into a spray pattern. The nozzle design allows the spray flow rate to be infinitely varied between minimum and maximum water flow rates with good atomization over the entire range of flow rates using significantly reduced air pressures than is conventional. The nozzles provide a uniform flow distribution pattern that is desirable in applications such as cross-direction moisture control in the papermaking industry.