Spraytest

Spraytest is the systematic evaluation of spray devices, such as nozzles, atomizers, and consumer spray dispensers, by delivering a test liquid under controlled conditions to characterize spray performance. The aim is to describe how liquid is distributed in space, the flow rate, and the droplet size and distribution, which affect coverage, efficiency, and safety.

A typical spraytest uses a calibration fluid (often water or a dye solution), a pressurized supply, a fixed stand-off distance, and a measurement bench. Parameters such as pressure, distance, and nozzle type are varied. Data are collected by imaging the spray, measuring flow with a flowmeter, and analyzing droplet size with laser diffraction or high-speed photography. Metrics include spray angle, spray width, mean droplet size (VMD or DV50), and deposition uniformity; drift and substrate coverage may also be assessed.

Applications span automotive painting and coating, agricultural spraying, fire suppression, hygiene products, and consumer cosmetics. Tests are conducted according to industry standards or internal QA protocols, with attention to temperature, liquid viscosity, and air movement because these factors influence results.

Limitations include laboratory conditions not fully replicating field use and nozzle wear altering performance over time. Spraytests guide nozzle selection, process optimization, and quality control.