Elucidation of Droplet Formation Mechanisms by Vibrating Mesh Atomizers

Abstract The research discusses the droplet formation mechanism in vibrating mesh atomizers. These atomizers, commonly used for particle generation in spray dryers or in inhalation devices, are characterized by resonance frequency, volume flow rate, droplet size distribution, and atomization efficiency. It was found out that the droplet size distribution was independent from the volume flow rate. Moreover, the atomization efficiency of this type of atomizer is comparable to that of pneumatic atomizers. The volume flow rate is modeled using the Bernoulli equation and the Hagen–Poiseuille law. Theoretical and experimental investigations concerning the droplet formation mechanism have demonstrated that the Rayleigh jet break‐up can be assumed to be the mechanism responsible for droplet formation with a metal mesh atomizer.