On simulating primary atomization: Guest Editors

Numerical simulations, on the other hand, have the potential to generate the needed comprehensive data sets. However, to become a tool that can be used complimentary to or even instead of experimental analysis, numerical simulations have to be based not only on governing equations derived from first principles, but they must also use verifiable numerical methods and have sufficient numerical resources available for both solution verification and validation. Fortunately, significant advances have been made in recent years, both in terms of numerical methods and available computational resources, to help researchers tackle the challenge of simulating primary atomization. Complex geometries common in realistic injectors are accounted for using an immersed boundary approach. Simulations of air-assisted breakup of both planar and coaxial liquid layers are shown to agree well with theoretical and experimental results.