Multi-Exposure PIV Measurements of Velocity Fields in Sprays

Abstract

This paper presents an approach to the use of the PIV method in the diagnosis of sprays generated by an effervescent atomiser. Due to the different density of the liquid phase depending on the distance from the nozzle, problems arise with the correct exposure of images for PIV analysis. The aim of the authors of this paper is to outline the possibility of solving this problem by composing a velocity field from partial measurements. To meet the objectives of the paper, in-house PIV equipment (hardware and software) was used rather than a commercial setup. This allowed for easier handling of the measured data and more sophisticated post-processing than offered by commercial products. It is clear from the results presented that, despite the fundamental differences in the optical properties of the spray particles, it is possible to obtain a velocity field from the discharge zone to the spray region with fine droplets. Moreover, it is possible to combine velocity measurements in the spray cone with measurements in the surrounding environment. Research background: Spray is an environment with an abundance of tracers for PIV analysis (droplets), but their density, size and shape vary dramatically with distance from the nozzle. The use of PIV can therefore be challenging due to the demands of this method for correct image exposure. Purpose of the article: Introduction of the application of the PIV method for environments with variable density and size of tracer particles Methods: PIV, image processing. Findings & Value added: By taking an appropriate approach to acquiring the source PIV images, it is possible to obtain information about the velocities throughout the spray cone as well as in the surrounding environment. The application of the proposed method requires a sufficiently large source data set (images) and sophisticated postprocessing. However, as a result, it is possible to obtain an overall view of the velocity field in the spray cone starting from the area behind the nozzle to the fine droplet region.