NONWETTING ELECTROSTATIC ASSISTED NOZZLE FOR SPRAYING A CATALYTIC MELT

In this paper we present how a normal pressure nozzle can be adapted i nto a successful electrostatic assisted atomiser for one particular in dustrial application. The ''Reverse Modelling'' technique for the desi gn of the nozzle head, induction electrode and counter 'wetting' elect rode using finite element method is of universal value and can be used widely in induction charging electrostatic spraying applications wher e wetting is a problem. Experimental results showed that under the sam e operating condition, an optimised geometry and position of electrode s can give a spray current an order of magnitude higher than the previ ous design without any wetting problem. An optimum combination of an i nduction and a counter electrode geometry and positions will ensure a non-wetting induction nozzle assembly with very high charging efficien cy.