(19)
(11) EP 0 444 767 A3

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION

(88) Date of publication A3:
11.03.1992 Bulletin 1992/11

(43) Date of publication A2:
04.09.1991 Bulletin 1991/36

(21) Application number: 91300236.6

(22) Date of filing: 14.01.1991
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC)5: B05B 7/00, B05B 7/04, C23C 4/12
(84) Designated Contracting States:
CH DE FR GB IT LI SE

(30) Priority: 24.02.1990 GB 9004214

(71) Applicant: ROLLS-ROYCE plc
London, SW1E 6AT (GB)

(72) Inventors:
  • King, Mark Andrew
    Derby (GB)
  • Coleman, James David
    Bristol, Avon (GB)
  • Smith, Anthony Gregory
    Weston, Bath (GB)

(74) Representative: Gunn, Michael Alan et al
Rolls Royce plc P.O. Box 31
Derby DE24 8BJ
Derby DE24 8BJ (GB)


(56) References cited: : 
   
       


    (54) An apparatus and method for atomising a liquid


    (57) An apparatus for atomising a liquid comprises an annular housing (32) which has a radially inner curved annular Coanda surface (34). The housing (32) has an outlet (40) in its radially inner circumferentially extending side which supplies a first pressurised fluid onto the Coanda surface (34). Diametrically opposite, confronting, surface portions (31,33) of the Coanda surface (34) define a convergent/divergent passage (35,37,39). A liquid is discharged from a nozzle (42) into the convergent portion (35) of the convergent/divergent passage so that a stream of liquid is positioned between the confronting surface portions (31,33). A second fluid is entrained by the first fluid (F) flowing over the Coanda surface (34). The second fluid (G) flows between the first fluid (E) and the stream of liquid, and the liquid is atomised as it interacts with the flow field generated by the apparatus. The liquid stream is automatically centralised between the confronting surface portions (31,33) to give uniform atomisation.






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