| Primary atomization in a planar pre-filming atomizer has been studied using high magnification hadowgraphy coupled with particle and ligament tracking. From this, mean drop sizes are reported for upstream locations which are inaccessible using PDA techniques. In addition, film thickness measurements and high speed visualizations have been performed. Based on these results, a new physics based model is derived to predict D32. Preliminary results indicate accuracy is within ±30% of the measured values. This model has a number of advantages compared to previous alternatives, including prediction of upstream drop sizes and no reliance on unknown flow properties. |
