Types of Nozzle Damage

Learn common causes of spray performance problems so you can troubleshoot whether maintenance or nozzle replacement is required to improve your process.
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Nozzles may sustain various types of damage during use, which can affect their performance and efficiency. Regular inspection, proper maintenance, and selection of nozzles made from appropriate materials for specific applications can help mitigate problems and ensure the longevity and efficiency of the nozzles. Here are some common types of nozzle damage.

Erosion/Wear

Degradation of the nozzle material and structure causes the nozzle orifice to enlarge, increasing the flow and altering the spray pattern.
MaxiPass nozzle
New
Broken MaxiPass nozzle
Erosion/Wear Damage

Corrosion

Chemicals in the sprayed material or environment might cause nozzles to break down. Even small amounts of corrosion negatively impact drop size and uniformity.
New AFF nozzle
New
Corrosion damage to a spray nozzle
Corrosion Damage

Operation in High Temperatures

Fluids sprayed at higher temperatures or exposure to high-temperature environments can damage nozzles

Caking/Bearding

Air atomizing nozzles are sensitive to this type of damage because evaporated liquid causes material build-up on the exterior of the nozzle orifice obstructing flow.
Nozzle caking/bearding
Caking/Bearding

Accidental Damage

Physical damage to the nozzle or its orifice caused by dropping the nozzle during installation or creating abrasions during cleaning with inappropriate tools, which can affect spray pattern performance.
Image depicting not to use screwdrivers to clean nozzles
Accidental Damage

Clogging

Solid particulates can get caught in the nozzle orifice and obstruct flow affecting the spray pattern.

Improper Installation

Nozzles with accessories, including caps, gaskets, O-rings, and valves, can be installed incorrectly, or nozzle tips can be inserted incorrectly into spray headers, which can affect the spray pattern performance.
Flat fan spray pattern
Unclogged Nozzle Spray Performance
Clogged flat fan spray pattern
Clogged Nozzle Spray Performance
MaxiPass nozzle
New
Broken MaxiPass nozzle
Erosion/Wear Damage
New AFF nozzle
New
Corrosion damage to a spray nozzle
Corrosion Damage
Nozzle caking/bearding
Caking/Bearding
Proper installation of EHP nozzle
Proper Installation
Flat fan spray pattern
Unclogged Spray Nozzle Performance
Clogged flat fan spray pattern
Clogged Spray Nozzle Performance
Contact our spray experts for maintenance guidance or ordering replacement nozzles.