Apparatus and method for converting liquid stream into fine droplets

A method for mixing and atomizing a hydrocarbon stream using a dispersion stream, said method comprising:

• providing an apparatus comprising:
• an inner conduit having a first inlet for receiving the hydrocarbon stream and a second inlet for receiving a primary dispersion stream, the inner conduit producing a primary mixture comprising the hydrocarbon stream and the primary dispersion stream;
• said second inlet for receiving the primary dispersion stream including a first axial pipe and at least one further axial pipe connected in a direction of the flow of the primary dispersion stream, the first axial pipe being adapted to receive the primary dispersion stream and the second axial pipe defining a first set of orifices for exit of the primary dispersion stream thereto, the first set of orifices being located and directed towards the first inlet;
• an outer conduit having a third inlet for receiving a secondary dispersion stream, said inner and outer conduits together defining an annular passage for downstream flow of the secondary dispersion stream;
• a distal end of the annular passage defining a second set of orifices for allowing the secondary dispersion stream flowing there-through to come in contact with the primary mixture and to thereby form a secondary mixture;
• an outlet for dispensing the secondary mixture comprising the hydrocarbon stream, the primary dispersion stream and the secondary dispersion stream;
• introducing the hydrocarbon stream into the first inlet of the inner conduit;
• introducing the primary dispersion stream into the second inlet of the inner conduit;
• and
• introducing the secondary dispersion stream into the third inlet of the outer conduit.