Slit Nozzle Comb Layer for Clogging-Resistant Spraying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slit nozzles face challenges in adapting to different liquid properties, leading to clogging and inefficient spraying due to fixed gap widths, which is problematic in treating particulate materials, especially in the pharmaceutical sector where uniform coating and granulation are critical.
Innovation Solution
A comb-like intermediate layer is introduced between the walls of the liquid gap, allowing for easy adjustment of gap width and shape to accommodate various liquid properties, preventing clogging and ensuring even spraying by varying the thickness, length, and spacing of the teeth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed gap width nozzle is used, then the nozzle structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but it cannot adapt to different liquid properties and causes clogging
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid gap is segmented by introducing a comb-like intermediate layer with multiple teeth, dividing the continuous gap into multiple sub-channels. This segmentation allows the liquid flow to be distributed across multiple paths, reducing the risk of clogging in any single channel while maintaining adaptability to different liquid properties through variable tooth configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle design enables dynamic adaptation by allowing the comb-like intermediate layer to be exchanged or adjusted based on the specific liquid properties being sprayed. The tooth spacing, height, and configuration can be changed to match different viscosity, particle size, and flow characteristics of various liquids, making the nozzle versatile without sacrificing manufacturing simplicity.
2Ease of manufacture
If the liquid gap structure is simplified for easy manufacture, then production is easier, but the spray performance deteriorates for viscous liquids with aggregates
Solution Approach 1:
The comb-like intermediate layer introduces local structural variations within the liquid gap, creating different flow characteristics in different regions. The teeth provide local turbulence and mixing zones that help break up aggregates in viscous liquids, while the overall gap structure remains simple and easy to manufacture. This local quality enhancement improves spray performance without complicating the overall nozzle design.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed geometry nozzle is used, then manufacturing is straightforward, but cleaning and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The comb-like intermediate layer is designed as a separate, removable component that can be easily extracted from the nozzle assembly. This segmentation allows the liquid gap to be accessed and cleaned thoroughly, as the intermediate layer can be removed to reach all internal surfaces. The standardized geometry of the comb layer simplifies manufacturing while its removable nature enables easy maintenance and cleaning.
4Manufacturing precision
If the liquid gap width is reduced for finer spray, then spray fineness improves, but clogging risk increases with solids-containing liquids
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the liquid gap into multiple narrower sub-channels separated by comb teeth, the design achieves fine spray distribution while maintaining clogging resistance. Each sub-channel carries a portion of the liquid flow, and if one channel becomes blocked, others remain functional. The multiple pathways provide redundancy against clogging while the overall fine gap structure delivers the desired spray uniformity and fineness.
Solution Approach 2:
The comb-like structure creates multiple partial flow paths instead of relying on a single narrow gap. This excessive action of creating redundant pathways ensures that even if some channels are blocked by solids, sufficient liquid flow continues through other channels, maintaining spray functionality while achieving fine atomization through the collectively narrow pathways.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables flexible adaptation to different liquids, preventing clogging and ensuring uniform spraying, which is essential for achieving even coating and granulation, and allows for easy assembly, disassembly, and cleaning of the nozzle.
Implementation Method 1
scavenging air gaps arranged next to the central liquid gap, via which scavenging air for atomizing the liquid can be discharged
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (10) used to treat particulate products, comprising a process chamber (16) for treating the product, and a base (14) which is made up of superimposed guide plates between which process air can be introduced into the process chamber. Said guide plates are designed such that the oppositely directed product and process air flows (34) and (36) form in the process chamber (16), said flows being deflected vertically upwards and coinciding along a break-up zone. A vertically upward spraying slit nozzle (30) is arranged in the base of said break-up zone, comprising a central fluid slit defined by two walls and spraying air gaps which are arranged on both sides of the central liquid gap. According to the invention, a chamber-like intermediate layer is formed in the liquid gap, which is placed between both walls defining the liquid gap. The teeth of the intermediate layer extend in the direction of an opening of the liquid gap.