| Many of the atomizers available from the major nozzle companies share
similar designs and configurations. Variations in design details, manufacturing techniques
as well as Quality Assurance acceptance standards mean that apparently
identical nozzles from two manufacturers can exhibit wide differences in
spray performance. Multiple samples of a specific nozzle from a single
manufacturer can also exhibit dimensional and performance variations that
can jeopardize critical processes [for an example, see
atomizer
qualification]. As an independent testing, research
and development laboratory not affiliated with any nozzle manufacturer,
spray research, inc.
is ideally suited for the objective performance evaluation of competing
atomizers. Spray tests are performed with strict regard to our comprehensive
set of
Standard Operating Procedures
using NIST-traceable calibrated instrumentation.
It is difficult to make informed comparisons of atomizer performance as
reported by the individual manufacturers. The industrial nozzle industry is
characterized by laboratories fitted with an array of different spray
analysis technologies [e.g.- video imaging, laser phase Doppler, light
scattering, aerodynamic time-of-flight, hot wire anemometry].
Each spray analysis technique introduces specific biases and sampling
limitations that largely preclude accurate comparisons of the data between
instruments. The degree and rigor of experimental controls governing the
laboratories also vary widely. Finally, the absence of comprehensive
international standards governing spray analysis further confounds the
comparison of the spray performance data generated by these captive labs.
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