Numerical modeling of the motion and interaction of a droplet of an inkjet printing process with a flat surface

Abstract

The numerical simulation and analysis of the ejection of an ink droplet through a nozzle as well its motion through air until its contact with a surface and taking up of a stable form is performed. The fluid flow is modeled by the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations with added surface tension. The presented model can be solved using either a level set or a phase field method to track the fluid interface. Here, the level set method is used to determinate the interface between ink and air. The presented work concentrates on the demonstration how to check the suitability of ink for inkjet printhead nozzles, for instance, for the use in printers. The results such as velocity, change of size, and volume dependence on time of an ink droplet are presented. Recommendations for the use of specific inks are also given.