[Atomization]
Detailed validation of the new atomization concept derived from drop tower experiments -Aimed at developing a turbulent atomization simulator-

RESEARCH OVERVIEW

• The authour found the detailed liquid atomization concept from the drop tower experiments. According to the concept, the break-up position of atomization process is affected by cumulative process of self-instability wave propagation along the flow. In order to validate the concept, micro-G experiment is needed.
• The conventional atomization concept developed by the Lord Rayleigh 130 years ago will be modified. We will obtain quantitative understanding of liquids atomization process. It can eventually optimize the spary combustion.
• The study, aims at quantitative understanding of the liquids atomization process, has an impact on Physics. It provides key information for improving effciency of spray combustion engine.

DESCRIPTION

The investigator found the detailed liquid atomization concept from the drop tower experiments. According to the concept, the break-up position of atomization process is affected by cumulative process of self-instability capillary wave propagation along the flow. In order to validate the concept on a flow especially in a low-speed condition, the micro-G experiment is needed. ATOMIZATION facility can create a water jet in micro-G. Since the water jet is subject to the atomization process, it spontaneously split into droplets. These atomization processes are taken by a high-speed camera, video-image is downlinked to the ground. Breakup locations are analyzed. Comparison with various sample conditions reveals how atomization mechanism is affected by cumulative process of self-instability wave propagation along the flow. This study, aims at quantitative understanding of the liquids atomization process, has impact on Physics. The conventional atomization concept developed by the Lord Reighleigh 130 years ago is modified. It provides key information for improving efficiency of engine via construction of a turbulent atomization simulator.

SPACE APPLICATIONS

The results from the ATOMIZATION experiment provides key information to maximize efficiency of the rocket engines used in the space program.

EARTH APPLICATIONS

An in-depth understanding of the atomization process will improve the design and efficiency of the spray of liquid fuels into combustion chambers in jet engines used in aircraft.

OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND PROTOCOLS

Crew support for adjustment of camera focus, High speed observation of liquid waters atomization process to reveal the atomization process.

ATOMIZATION is launched aboard ORB3. ATOMIZATION as well as its tests are unstowed from CTB and mounted in the MSPR/WV. Crew sets up a water syringe and adjusts focusing of high speed camera. After that, ground operators carry out experiments. Water is injected from the nozzle. Injected flow is subjected to the atomization process. These processes are taken by a high-speed camera, video-image is downlinked to the ground. Breakup locations are analyzed. Comparison with various sample conditions reveals how atomization mechanism is affected by cumulative process of self-instability wave propagation along the flow. Crew member is requested to replace the syringe and the water collector. Crew time for the experiment is estimated as 12 hours.