An
improved method and apparatus for producing an extremely fine micron and sub-
micron size water mist using an electronic
ultrasonic device that produces the mist at ambient-pressure and delivering the mist for application in suppressing fire. A piezoelectric
transducer is arranged to produce a water mist having at least a portion of sub-
micron size droplets. The water mist is produced by
high frequency pressure
waves or ultrasonic
waves of predetermined or variable frequency, including frequencies which may exceed 2.5 MHz. The water mist is directed to a firebase to be self-entrained by the fire's
flame. The
momentum provided the water mist in directing the mist is minimized to enhance the ability of the fire to entrain the mist, and the flow of the carrier medium is usually directed tangentially about the water fountain creating the mist. Further, the
throughput and concentration of the mist is controlled to ensure that the entrained mist will be sufficient to cool and suppress the fire. The water mist may be effectively utilized for mitigating blast and reducing over pressures. The fine water mist may also be utilized for humidification because of its fast
vaporization and efficient cooling behavior. The apparatus may be modified in its
physical design and direction of output, and the method may be modified by adjusting the
throughput of mist, composition of mist, concentration of mist, and
momentum of mist, whereby fire may be suppressed under many different scenarios.