airatomized

Air atomization is a liquid atomization method that uses a high-velocity airstream to break a liquid into fine droplets. In typical configurations, liquid exits a nozzle and meets an air stream either coaxially (air-assisted or two-fluid nozzle) or around the liquid jet (air-blast arrangement). The interaction between air and liquid shears and entrains the liquid, producing a spray with a characteristic droplet size distribution that can be adjusted by the air-to-liquid ratio, nozzle geometry, liquid viscosity, surface tension, and operating pressure.

Droplet sizes produced by air-atomized sprays generally range from tens of micrometers to several hundred micrometers. Finer droplets improve atomization, evaporation, and mixing but require more energy and can increase drift in some applications. The overall spray quality depends on factors such as nozzle design, air pressure, liquid properties, and operating conditions.

Applications for air-atomized sprays are diverse. In coatings and painting, air atomization enhances transfer efficiency and finish quality. In agricultural spraying, fine droplets improve coverage, though drift control is important. In industrial burners and combustion systems, air-assisted atomization promotes better fuel–air mixing and more uniform combustion.

Compared with airless spray methods, air atomization offers more control over droplet size and distribution but typically consumes more energy and can demand more precise maintenance due to nozzle wear and potential clogging from contaminants. Liquid properties play a significant role; highly viscous or particulate-laden liquids pose challenges for consistent atomization.

In summary, air atomization is a widely used spray technology that enables finer, more controllable liquid deposition through a high-velocity air stream, with trade-offs in energy use and equipment maintenance.