Importance

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Abstract

A plate-type nozzle and a method of using same to atomize a liquid are disclosed, wherein the nozzle contains at least one nozzle plate having formed on a common facial surface thereof at least one atomization chamber containing: an inlet for a liquid stream; a jet-forming channel downstream of and in fluid communication with the inlet, the jet-forming channel being adapted to convert the stream into a jet; an interaction channel downstream of and in fluid communication with the jet-forming channel and having opposite first and second sides, the jet passing between the first and second sides and forming an attachment to either the first or second side; a split path having first and second branch channels associated with the respective first and second sides of the interaction channel, wherein attachment to the first side causes the jet to flow entirely into the first branch channel while attachment to the second side causes the jet to flow entirely into the second branch channel; at least one control channel in fluid communication with the interaction channel at the first and second sides; wherein an oscillating pressure wave is induced in the control channel, causing the attachment of the jet to switch back-and-forth between the first and second sides, respectively, to cause the jet to form substantially discrete liquid volumes in the first and second branch channels; and one or more outlet ports in communication with the branch channels for the liquid volumes, the volumes exiting the one or more outlet ports as substantially discrete atomized drops.

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First Claim