Centrifugal atomizer

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The invention comprises an atomization head for attachment to a centrifugal atomizer for a liquid sprayer, preferably a sprayer for atomizing and applying liquid coating materials.
The atomization head preferably includes a dish-shaped or cup-shaped rotatable member having a forwardly projecting circumference and a smooth inner surface leading to an annular liquid feeding orifice which is concentrically placed about the axis of rotation of the atomization head.
The atomization head further includes a central disk which has an axial recess, with a plurality of openings through the bottom of the recess to create liquid flow paths to the rear of the atomizer head.
A liquid feed chamber is developed at the rear of the atomization head, with a liquid feed orifice positioned proximate the recess openings so as to cause at least a portion of the liquid metered through the orifice to pass through the recessed openings.
A further portion of the liquid feeds through the annular passage described above, to develop a first liquid sheet feeding through the annular orifice over the forward surface of the atomization head, and a second liquid sheet feeding through the recessed openings over the forward surface of the concentric disk, thereby continuously wetting the central region of the atomization head and preventing the accumulation of dried particles.
A further aspect of the invention includes a diffuser screen which is affixed in covering relation over the central recess of the atomization head, thereby providing further diffusion for liquid passing through the recessed openings, and onto the outer forward surface of the concentric disk.
It is the principal object of the present invention to provide an atomization head for centrifugal sprayers wherein a thin liquid film is metered over the forward surface of the atomization head to provide continuous wetting of the entire forward surface.
It is the further object of the present invention to provide an atomization head having a primary annular metering orifice to the front surface of the atomization head, and a secondary central metering orifice to provide liquid flow to the central portion of the atomization head