The Prediction of Sauter Mean Diameter for Gas Turbine Fuel Nozzles of Different Types

Reviewing the more important published equations for predicting SMD for various types of fuel nozzles it is pointed out that there is no universal or common approach to cover different nozzle designs. In particular there is no effort to bridge the gap between pressure-atomizers and air-atomizers, especially the air-assisted simplex nozzle. Furthermore many of the equations provide no basis for estimating the effect of dimensions which is essential in modeling. An equation is presented, based on both new and published data, which satisfies these objections, and is shown to be related to previous methods. Suggestions are made with regard to the choice of constants in the prediction equation so as to represent fairly the present state of the art.