Drum atomisation studies

Studies have been made into the behaviour of rotating drums as a means of atomisation and fuel injection for gas turbine engines. Radial holes in the wall of the drum discharge liquid continuously, forming jets which atomise on contact with the surrounding air. The effects of rotational speed, drum diameter, liquid flow rate and hole proportions have been investigated using water and kerosine. The flow and atomisation characteristics have been established and are discussed in terms of application to the gas turbine. It is apparent that savings in complexity, weight and hence cost of fuel systems may be achieved with drum atomisers, but these may be offset to some extent by the increased costs of full scale annular combustion chamber development.