An atomization modeling basis for sprinklers has been developed using free surface boundary layer and wave dispersion theories.
The sprinkler is modeled as an axisymmetric impinging jet.
The effect of the frame arms and tines are not currently incorporated into the model, but will be included in future refinements.
The atomization model provides initial drop conditions that can be used to track an array of characteristic initial drop sizes that represent the entire spray.
The atomization model predicts an initial spray having a realistic drop size distribution, which closely matches the Rosin-Rammler/log-normal expression.
Despite the simplified configuration used to develop the model, median volume diameters, dv50, calcu- lated from predicted distributions show excellent agree- ment with actual drop size measurements from sprinklers.