A nozzle assembly for use in atomizing and generating sprays from a fluid.
The nozzle assembly includes two members, each with generally planar
surfaces, that are joined together. A first set of channels is formed in
the generally planar surface of a first one of the members to form, in
cooperation with the generally planar surface of the second of the
members, a plurality of filter passageways. A plenum chamber is formed in
the first member. The plenum chamber is in fluid communication with and
downstream of the plurality of filter passageways. A second set of
channels is formed in the generally planar surface of the first member to
form, in cooperation with the generally planar surface of the second
member, a plurality of nozzle outlet passageways. These nozzle outlet
passageways are in fluid communication with the plenum chamber. The nozzle
outlet passageways include a plurality of nozzle outlets which are adapted
to discharge a plurality of fluid jets that impinge on one another to
thereby atomize a flow of fluid.