Design of electrostatic fog generator using a reverse field modelling technique

The paper presents the results of a research study on developing and constructing an induction charging electrode arrangement in an electrostatic spraying nozzle for green house application. A twin fluid nozzle specially constructed for generation of very fine water based pesticides spray was used in this study. The electrode arrangement was optimised with respect to charging efficiency of spray droplets. A reverse field modelling technique was used to establish the influence of position and shape of the electrodes on spatial distribution of electric field required to charge the spray to a desired level of specific charge. A finite element computer software ALGOR was utilised for this purpose. The size distribution as well as charge-to-mass ratio of the spray generated by the nozzle was measured under various operating conditions. The result of the preliminary experimental study confirmed that the improved design enhanced the deposition characteristic of the charged spray.