How to Select the Correct Spray Nozzle for Your Specific Application
With over 25,000 varieties of nozzles, Lechler has a spray solution for just about every need. However, if you’re new to the nozzle industry, have recently expanded your nozzle needs, or just want to try something new, it can sometimes be confusing having to determine which nozzle is the correct spray nozzle for your specific needs. Here, we will break down the main categories of nozzles and which is the best spray nozzle for your application to help you make your next nozzle decision.
Air Nozzles
Used for dispersing air or steam, air nozzles typically have a flat fan or solid stream spray pattern. Conventional air nozzles blow air through a single hole, often emitting a loud, hissing noise. To prevent this drawback, special multi-channel air nozzles have also been developed which reduce the sound made and also air consumed. Not only are the features of multi-channel nozzles more economical, they are also better for employee safety.
One application for air nozzles is for cleaning. Frequently used for blowing off swarf, they can also be used for cooling, drying, selecting, sorting, or ionizing applications. When grouped together, air nozzles can also be used to create an air curtain.
Lechler’s air nozzles are some of the best in the industry, combining power, efficiency, and safety to all deliver a top performing air nozzle.
Flat Fan Nozzles
Flat fan nozzles come in several different types, two of which are axial style and deflector style. Axial style nozzles have a parabolic spray pattern, meaning the concentration of spray is most dense in the middle, and tapered at the ends. These are often used for impact and power cleaning.
Deflector style flat fan nozzles have a completely uniform spray pattern that produces a solid stream spray. One such model produces an exceptionally wide spray angle while another channels the fluid into a powerful narrow angle jet.
Full Cone Nozzles
The purpose of full cone nozzles is to produce complete coverage within the circular spray radius. They are ideal for spraying large amounts of liquid or other material and used for cooling applications.
There are two different styles of full cone nozzles. Axial full cone nozzles distribute liquid uniformly over an area. Tangential full cone nozzles are designed with a lack of internal vanes to avoid clogging.
Hollow Cone Nozzles
Similar to full cone nozzles, hollow cone nozzles also come in axial-flow and tangential flow styles. However, instead of spraying the entire area, they are designed to spray around the outer edge of the circular spray pattern.
Hollow cone spray nozzles have an advantage over their full cone counterparts, as they can produce the smallest droplet size of any purely hydraulic nozzle.
This nozzle type uses spiral grooves to ensure efficient whirling of the liquid, creating uniform droplets throughout the spray pattern. Hollow cone nozzles are great for pasteurization applications, as well as dust control and air humidification.
Pneumatic Atomizing Nozzles
Pneumatic atomizing nozzles are one of the most diverse nozzle types available. Each type is designed to meet a specific spray and flow requirement, some of which may be any one of the following applications, or more:
- Self-aspiration
- Supplying liquid from a vessel located at a higher level
- Supplying liquid under pressure
- Mixing fluids inside or outside the nozzle
When selecting the best pneumatic atomizing nozzle, be sure you analyze your needs.
What Type of Spray Pattern Is Required?
Flat fan atomizing nozzles are ideal for humidifying and cooling products, web dampening, or in applications where a broad, linear coverage is required (such as paint or food toppings).
What Is the Supply Source of Liquid?
Certain pneumatic atomizing nozzles are ideal for operating by siphoning. They are best used when low quantities of liquid are needed with little pressure.
Do You Require Internal or External Mixing?
Pneumatic nozzles mix air with liquid flow, breaking up the fluid into smaller droplet particles. Depending on the type of pneumatic nozzle you choose, they can complete this process either inside the nozzle chamber (internal mixing) or outside the nozzle chamber (external mixing).
Internal mixing is a great solution for liquids with a low viscosity. Whereas, external mixing is more appropriate for high viscosity liquids, as they may clog the nozzle if improperly handled.
Solid Stream Nozzles
Solid stream nozzles produce a solid jet stream, unlike other nozzles which produce droplets that atomize. Solid streams are best suited for cleaning processes which require high impact and concentrated power. Solid stream nozzles can be used for cutting and trimming applications.
Be sure to choose solid stream nozzles which are made of strong materials, designed to withstand their high-pressure functionality. Stainless steel with special hardening or Tungsten Carbide inserts are two of our favorite options.
Tank Cleaning Nozzles
Named for their purpose, there are several different types of tank cleaning nozzles, each suited for a particular industry or tank cleaning need. Lechler offers a complete line of tank cleaning products that range from cleaning 3ft to 5 ft size tanks. You can view more information about the various types of tank cleaning nozzles by visiting our product page or by perusing more of our blog articles on the subject.
No Matter Which Type of Nozzle You Need, Make Sure it is Made by Lechler
Lechler is more than just a nozzle manufacturer. We provide custom engineered spray solutions, state of the art testing capabilities, fabrication, and refurbishment programs, all to ensure you have the exact right nozzle technology for your industry, your application, and your budget. Serving various markets, from food and beverage to chemical, steel, and power generation,
Lechler is your resident expert on all aspects of the nozzle industry. Contact our knowledgeable and trusted team today and fill out our online contact form to get started on your custom nozzle and spray solution.