WO2025259752A1

WO2025259752A1 - Mist creation system and method of using the same

Info

Publication number: WO2025259752A1
Application number: PCT/US2025/033144
Authority: WO
Inventors: Austin HULTMARK; David Mathew Johnson; Aditya SANGLI; Ravi Neelakantan
Original assignee: SRI International Inc; Stanford Research Institute
Current assignee: SRI International Inc
Priority date: 2024-06-11
Filing date: 2025-06-11
Publication date: 2025-12-18
Anticipated expiration: 2026-12-11

Abstract

A mist creation system is provided. The mist creation system is configured to create a mist from a fluid. The mist creation system includes a central roller having a first axis and a first outer surface, and at least one cooperating roller having a second outer surface extending between a first end having a first diameter and a second end having a second diameter. The second diameter is greater than the first diameter. The at least one cooperating roller has a second axis and the second axis is substantially perpendicular or positioned at an angle with respect to the first axis of the central roller. The system also includes at least one nip formed, between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller.

Description

MIST CREATION SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The present application is a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) patent application claiming priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 63/658,648, filed June 11, 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. GOVERNMENT RIGHTS [0002] This invention was made with Government support under Contract Number DEEE0009128 awarded by the Department of Energy. The Government has certain rights in this invention. BACKGROUND [0003] Currently, to convert a fluid, such as a dairy fluid (e.g., milk or whey), into a powder, the fluid is concentrated to a concentrated state through a variety of thermal, mechanical, or membrane based means and then dispensed through an atomizer, which atomizes the fluid into a large structure commonly referred to as a spray dryer. The atomized fluid (e.g., mist) is dried with hot air in the spray dryer and fed into a cyclone separator. The cyclone separator has a tight radius of curvature operating at a high speed to separate the powder from hot moist air. In this system, the spray dryer is inefficient, but because of the limitations in the properties of the fluid being sprayed, the spray dryer is used to evaporate a significant portion of the water content of the fluid. Using these atomizers in spray drying systems leads to high energy consumption because of the high solids content. [0004] It would be useful to have a system to spray dry products at higher solids concentrations to reduce energy consumption. However, current spray drying nozzles cannot spray such fluids. [0005] Thus, an improved system and process for converting fluids, such as high- concentration dairy fluids, into a powder may be useful to reduce energy consumption, improve efficiency, and lower capital and operating costs for spray drying operations. SUMMARY [0006] In an example embodiment, a mist creation system is provided. The mist creation system is configured to create a mist from a fluid. The mist creation system includes a central roller having a first axis and a first outer surface, and at least one cooperating roller having a second outer surface extending between a first end having a first diameter and a second end having a second diameter. The second diameter is greater than the first diameter. The at least one cooperating roller has a second axis and the second axis is positioned at an angle, such as a substantially perpendicular angle, with respect to the first axis of the central roller. The system also includes at least one nip formed between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller. [0007] In an example embodiment, a mist creation system is provided. The mist creation system includes one or more central rollers having a first axis and a first outer surface, and at least one cooperating roller having a second outer surface for each central roller. The at least one cooperating roller has a second axis, and the second axis positioned at an angle, such as a substantially perpendicular angle, with respect to the first axis of the central roller. The system further includes at least one nip formed between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller, a fluid source configured to coat at least one of the first outer surface of the central roller or the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller with a fluid, and a driving element configured to drive the central roller in a first direction and drive the at least one cooperating roller in a second opposite direction to cause the fluid to be drawn through the at least one nip. A filament of the fluid is stretched between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller until the filament breaks into a mist or plurality of droplets. [0008] In an example embodiment, a method of creating a mist from a fluid is provided. The method includes applying the fluid to at least one of a first outer surface of a central roller or a second outer surface of a cooperating roller. A first axis of the cooperating roller is positioned at an angle, such as a substantially perpendicular angle, with respect to a second axis of the central roller, and the fluid adheres to at least one of the first outer surface or the second outer surface. The method also includes stretching the fluid along a nip formed between the first outer surface and the second outer surface to form a fluid filament, causing the fluid filament to break into a plurality of droplets, and spraying the plurality of droplets in a direction substantially perpendicular to the nip or in a direction away from at least one of the central roller or the at least one cooperating roller. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0009] The above, as well as additional, features will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of example embodiments, with reference to the appended drawings. [0010] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an example embodiment of an array of example mist creation systems of the present disclosure. [0011] Figure 2 is a side isometric view of a mist creation system of the plurality of mist creation systems in Figure 1. [0012] Figure 3 is a top isometric view of the mist creation system of Figure 2. [0013] Figure 3A is an isometric view of an optional harvesting shroud for use with the mist creation system of Figure 2. [0014] Figure 3B is a partial isometric view of the mist creation system of Figure 10. [0015] Figure 4 is an isometric view of a central support of the mist creation system of Figure 2. [0016] Figure 5 is an exploded view of a central roller and a gear of the mist creation system of Figure 2. [0017] Figure 6A is an enlarged side isometric view of the central roller and central support of Figures 4 and 5, including a feed system. [0018] Figure 6B is a partial top view of the central roller, a corresponding roller, and a dispenser of the feed system of Figure 6A, including a plurality of pads. [0019] Figure 6C is a partial top view of the central roller, a corresponding roller, and a dispenser of the feed system of Figure 6A, including a plurality of bearings. [0020] Figure 7 is an enlarged side isometric view of an end of a cooperating roller of the mist creation system of Figure 2. [0021] Figure 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mist creation system of Figure 2. [0022] Figure 9A is an isometric view of a central roller and a cooperating roller of the mist creation system of Figure 2, including a spray direction. [0023] Figure 9B is an isometric view of the central roller and the cooperating roller of Figure 9A, including a contact angle. [0024] Figure 9C is an isometric view of the central roller and the cooperating roller of Figure 9A, including another contact angle. [0025] Figure 10 is a partial isometric view of another embodiment of a mist creation system, having a first central roller and a second central roller. [0026] Figure 11 is an isometric view of the mist creation system of Figure 10. [0027] Figure 12 is an isometric view of the second central roller and a coupler of Figure 10. [0028] Figure 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of the mist creation system of Figure 10. [0029] Figure 14 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of a mist creation system, including two stacked mist creation systems of Figure 10. [0030] Figure 15 is a top partial isometric view of another embodiment of a mist creation system, including offset cooperating rollers. [0031] Figures 16 is a side partial isometric view of Figure 15. [0032] Figure 17 is a plan view of the mist creation system of Figure 2 installed in an example spray dry system of the present disclosure. [0033] Figure 18A is a side view of an air curtain of a spray dryer of the spray dry system of Figure 17. [0034] Figure 18B is a bottom view of the air curtain of the spray dryer of Figure 18A. [0035] Figure 18C is an isometric view of the air curtain of the spray dryer Figure 18A. [0036] Figure 19A is a side view of a plurality of nozzles of a spray dryer of the spray dry system of Figure 17. [0037] Figure 19B is a bottom view of the plurality of nozzles within the spray dryer of Figure 19A. [0038] Figure 19C is an isometric view of the plurality of nozzles within the spray dryer of Figure 19A. [0039] Figure 20 is a plan view of the mist creation system of Figure 2 installed in another example spray dry system. [0040] Figure 21A is a side view of an air curtain of a spray dryer of the spray dry system of Figure 20. [0041] Figure 21B is a bottom view of the air curtain of the spray dryer of Figure 21A. [0042] Figure 21C is an isometric view of the air curtain of the spray dryer Figure 21A. [0043] Figure 22 is a flowchart of a method of creating a mist from a fluid with a powder creation system of the present disclosure. [0044] All the figures are schematic, not necessarily to scale, and generally only show parts which are necessary to elucidate example embodiments, wherein other parts may be omitted or merely suggested. DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0045] Example embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. That which is encompassed by the claims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example. Furthermore, like numbers refer to the same or similar elements or components throughout. [0046] Disclosed herein is a mist creation system for creating a mist from a fluid, such as a dairy fluid, and drying the mist to form a high-quality powder product. As provided in different contexts, mist herein may also interchangeably be referred to as aerosol and/or droplets. [0047] A mist creation system is provided in a spray dryer system, particularly the mist creation system is positioned within a spray dryer or drying chamber of the spray dryer system. [0048] The mist creation system dispenses a fluid onto one or more of the rollers and pulls the fluid into a nip and stretches a filament of a fluid (e.g., such as whey, milk, soy, flavoring, chemical solutions and suspensions, or pharmaceutical formulations) between an outer surface of a central roller and an outer surface of at least one cooperating roller. [0049] The mist creation system may use rollers, such as a central (e.g., conical) roller and cooperating (e.g., conical) rollers, fluid dispensers, adjustability of nip pressures, and roller speeds to provide a large throughput of fluids with solid loadings as high as 80% solids. At least one nip is provided between the rollers. The nip, where fluid is drawn into after being dispensed onto one or more rollers, may be the contact area between the one or more rollers where without fluid, the (e.g., two) rollers would be in contact with each other with a controlled pressure. The fluid, when pulled into the nip, creates a thin film layer before being pulled into filaments and broken into a plurality of droplets. The mist creation system can spray a wide range of fluids. [0050] The mist creation system positioned within the spray dryer, with an airflow, is configured to direct the mist, aerosol, and/or droplets (e.g., spray) created (e.g., from the one or more nips) within the spray dryer. The air is configured to reduce the moisture or solvent content of the mist and increase the solid content of the mist to a point where the mist becomes a powder, which is then separated from the moist air and can be further processed. [0051] The mist creation system herein can be contained within a small footprint (e.g., of the spray dryer) and can prevent mist from hitting other surfaces of the spray dryer system and/or the mist creation system. Moreover, the mist creation system herein may operate with little to no additional airflow, for improved efficiency. [0052] As shown in Figure 1, an array 100 is provided including at least one mist creation system 200. In an example embodiment, as shown in Figure 1, the array includes four mist creation systems 200 arranged with a distance between them to prevent or minimize interference between the systems 200. Any number of mist creation systems 200 is possible. [0053] A spray dryer system 1000 and/or 2000 (discussed herein) may include the mist creation system 200. The system 1000 and/or 2000 may include at least a motor 102, a fluid or feed system configured to provide a fluid to the system 200, an optional air source configured to facilitate drying mist created by the system 200, and a platform 108 with one or more of the motor, feed system, system 200, and/or the optional air source coupled thereto. The system 1000 and/or 2000 may include more or fewer components. [0054] The motor 102 is configured to provide power to operate at least one mist creation system 200. In an example embodiment, the motor 102 may be an electric AC motor, an internal combustion engine, a DC motor, a stepper motor, a pancake motor, or any other device that can provide rotational speed and a control system to control the speed. The motor 102 may drive one or more systems 200 through the use of a gear or belt to transfer the rotational speed to the different systems 200 or multiple motors 102 may be provided to drive each system 200 individually. [0055] The spray dryer system 1000 and/or 2000 may include a fluid source configured to provide a fluid, such as whey or milk, to the mist creation system 200 to create a mist. [0056] Moreover, the air source, such as one or more fans or blowers (e.g., air heater 1004), may be configured to provide air to facilitate moving the fluid and/or the mist, once created, through the spray dryer of the spray dryer system 1000 and/or 2000. [0057] As shown in Figures 1-3, the mist creation system 200 may be coupled to a platform 108. The platform 108 may be part of the spray drying system 1000 and/or 2000 (as best shown in Figures 17-21). In an example embodiment, the platform 108 may be coupled to or integrally formed with at least a portion (e.g., of the top surface) of the spray dryer, as discussed herein. [0058] The platform 108 may be a substantially planar surface that may be precision machined to provide stability, alignment, and positioning of the one or more mist creation systems 200. In an example embodiment, the platform 108 may be supplied with an electrostatic charge in order to prevent accumulation of mist on the platform 108. In this example embodiment, the mist created is oppositely charged either by charging one or more of the rollers 202 or 204, or supplying an electrode near the points of spray generation to create an opposite charge. [0059] The mist creation systems 200, as shown in Figure 1, are coupled to the platform 108 and positioned to direct a mist, once created, in a downward and/or outward direction and away from the mist creation systems 200. In an example embodiment, the platform 108 may be provided in the form of copper or any other conductive metal and may be supplied with an opposite charge. This may impart an electrostatic force on the fluid from the fluid system, the created mist, and/or powder to facilitate harvesting and prevent buildup (e.g., of material) on surfaces. [0060] As shown in Figure 3A, an optional harvesting shroud 112 may be positioned around at least one mist creation system 200 to facilitate collecting and/or directing mist and/or powder created away from the systems 200. The mist and/or powder may be directed outward from the system 200 and exit the shroud 112 via at least one opening. As shown in Figure 3A, the shroud may include four circumferential openings. [0061] In an example embodiment, continuing with Figures 1-3, the mist creation system 200 may include a central roller 202 and at least one cooperating roller 204. The central roller 202 is configured to be coaxially aligned with a vertical axis 206, and the at least one cooperating roller 204 is configured to be substantially coaxially aligned with an axis 208. As shown, the vertical axis 206 may be substantially perpendicular to the axis 208. Although the axis 208 of the cooperating roller 204 is shown as substantially perpendicular to the vertical axis 206 of the central roller 202, the axis 208 may form an angle, such as an acute angle, with the axis 206. Positioning the at least one cooperating roller 204 along the axis 208, provides the mist created from the fluid (e.g., by the rotation of the central roller 202 and the at least one cooperating roller 204) to be sprayed away from the system 200 in a downward and/or outward direction. [0062] In an example embodiment, the central roller 202 and/or the at least one cooperating roller 204 may be provided in the form of a metal such as stainless steel, aluminum, or high carbon steel and may be supplied with an opposite charge provided to the platform 108. The charges provided to the rollers 202 and/or 204 and the platform 108 may facilitate electrostatic harvesting. In an example embodiment, at least one roller 202 and/or 204 is provided with a +100 volt charge, and the platform 108 is provided with a -1000 volt charge. In an example embodiment, the central roller 202 and/or the at least one cooperating roller 204 may be supplied with an electrostatic charge to facilitate charging the plurality of droplets created from the system 200. [0063] Further, a plurality of bearings may facilitate ease of rotation of the rollers 202 and/or 204. The central roller 202 is configured to rotate in a first direction and the at least one cooperating roller 204 is configured to rotate in a second direction, and the first direction is opposite of the second direction. By rotating the central roller 202 in a direction opposite the direction of the at least one cooperating roller 204, the rollers 202 and/or 204 can create mist from a fluid provided between the rollers 202 and/or 204. [0064] The central roller 202 may have a conical frustum shape with an outer surface 210 extending between a first end 212 and an opposing second end 214. The first end 212 may have a first diameter, and the second end 214 may have a second diameter that is less than the first diameter. [0065] Moreover, the at least one cooperating roller 204 may have a conical frustum shape with an outer surface 216 extending between a first end 218 and an opposing second end 220. The first end 218 may have a first diameter, and the second end 220 may have a second diameter that is greater than the first diameter. [0066] In an example embodiment, the diameter of the first end 212 of the central roller 202 is greater than the diameter of the first end 218 of the at least one cooperating roller 204, and, similarly, the diameter of the second end 214 of the central roller 202 is greater than the diameter of the second end 220 of the at least one cooperating roller 204. Additionally, in an example embodiment, the diameter of the first end 212 of the central roller 202 is greater than the second end 220 of the at least one cooperating roller 204. Other diameters are possible. The size of the diameter of the central roller 202 and/or the cooperating roller 204 is selected to minimize the change to the linear speed along the nip of each respective roller since changes to the linear speed of the rollers impact the formation of the plurality of droplets. [0067] As shown in at least Figures 1-3, the axis 208 of each cooperating roller 204 may be substantially perpendicular to or may create an angle, such as an acute angle, with the axis 206 of the central roller 202. A nip 222 may be formed between each cooperating roller 204 and the central roller 202. In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1-3 each cooperating roller 204 is the substantially the same size and (e.g., substantially) equally spaced around the central roller 202. Rollers of the same size and with similar or the same spacing will result in symmetric and substantially similar mist from each nip 222. In another example embodiment, rollers 204 may be different sizes and be spaced irregularly around the central roller 202 to create different quality mist produced from each nip 222 (best shown in Figures 15 and 16). Although the central roller 202 and cooperating roller 204 are provided with a size and shape, as shown, each central roller 202 and each cooperating roller 204 may have any suitable size or shape. [0068] Further, each cooperating roller 204 may have the same size, as shown. In another example embodiment, each cooperating roller 204 may have different sizes. For example, the diameter of the first end 218 of a first cooperating roller 204 may be different (e.g., larger or smaller) than the diameter of the first end 218 of a second cooperating roller 204. Changing the size of the rollers 202 and/or 204 may impact the spacing between the respective rollers, and changing the space between the rollers 202 and/or 204 may change the linear speed along each nip 222 of each respective roller impacting the formation of the plurality of droplets. [0069] As shown in Figure 3B, the central roller 202 includes a central opening 259. Each cooperating roller 204 extends radially outward from the central opening 259 such that the first end 218 is positioned at or near the central opening 259. Moreover, each cooperating roller 204 is positioned substantially equidistant from the next respective cooperating roller 204 around the central opening 259. [0070] The central roller 202 and/or the cooperating roller 204 may be provided in the form of metal. A rubber or elastomer portion 221 of the roller 202 may be provided on the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202 and/or a rubber portion or elastomer 223 may be provided on the outer surface 216 of the cooperating roller 204. The rubber portions 221 and/or 223 may be configured to enable the fluid provided from the fluid system to coat the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202 and/or the outer surface 216 of at least one of the cooperating rollers 204 while preventing the fluid from sticking thereto. In another example embodiment, the central roller 202 and/or the cooperating roller 204 may be provided in the form of one or more other materials, such as a rubber and/or an elastomer rather than a metal. [0071] The outer surface 216 of each cooperating roller 204 may form the nip 222 with the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202. The nip 222 facilitates production of the mist within the mist creation system 200 by stretching fluid to form a fluid filament. As discussed herein, the nip pressure may be adjusted to impact the creation of the mist from the fluid. [0072] In an example embodiment, as shown in Figure 2, the mist creation system 200 includes one central roller 202 and five cooperating rollers 204, such that a plurality of nips 222 are formed. Specifically, one nip 222 is formed between each of the respective five cooperating rollers 204 and the central roller 202 (e.g., a total of five nips 222 are formed). In other example embodiments, it is possible to have any number of cooperating rollers 204, and thus, any number of nips 222 formed between each cooperating roller 204 and the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202. [0073] During operation, fluid may be fed from the fluid system into one side of the nip 222, such as a side at or near the second end 220 of the cooperating roller 204, and the fluid may emerge out another side of the nip 222, such as a side at or near the first end 218 of the cooperating roller 204. The central roller 202 and the cooperating roller 204 are configured to pull the fluid into (e.g., thin) filaments as the rollers 202 and 204 impart an extensional strain on the filaments. The filaments then atomize into a plurality of particles or droplets, creating a mist or aerosol. [0074] Moreover, the nip 222 has a length 228 (as best shown in Figure 9A) provided between the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202 and the outer surface 216 of the cooperating roller 204. In an example embodiment, the length 228 of the nip 222 is between about 15mm and about 300 mm, or between about 25mm and about 150mm, or about 65mm. In another example embodiment, the length 228 of the nip 222 may be about 130mm. [0075] Further, the central roller 202 may have a height 229 measured, along the axis 206, between the first end 212 and the opposing second end 214, and the cooperating roller 204 may have a height 230 measured, along the axis 208, between the first end 218 and the opposing second end 220. In an example embodiment, the height 230 of the cooperating roller 204 is between about 15mm and about 200 mm, or between about 25mm and about 125mm, or about 60mm. Further, in the example embodiment, the height 230 of the cooperating roller 204 is the harvest length. In an example embodiment, the length 228 of the nip 222 may be longer than the harvest length (e.g., the height 230 of the cooperating roller 204). Sizes of the rollers 202 and/or 204 may be scaled relative to each other, such that in some example embodiments, rollers 202, such as rollers as big as 1000 mm, may be used with corresponding rollers 204 of a similar size. [0076] As shown in Figures 2-8, the mist creation system 200 may include a central support 250 (as best shown in Figure 4) configured to provide structural support and alignment for the central roller 202 and the at least one cooperating roller 204. In an example embodiment, the central support 250 is provided in the form of a (e.g., ground) stainless steel, although other materials are possible. The central support 250 is configured to provide a rigid support for the central roller 202 with respect to the at least one cooperating roller 204 providing a (e.g., tight) tolerance between the outer surface 216 of the at least one cooperating roller 204 and the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202. [0077] The central support 250 may include a first central shaft 252 having a substantially cylindrical shape extending between a first end 256 and an opposing second end 258. The first central shaft 252 is configured with a size and shape to accommodate supporting the central roller 202. As shown, the first central shaft 252 may be configured to extend through a central opening 259 formed within the central roller 202. Moreover, the first central shaft 252 of the central support 250 may have a height 264 (as best shown in Figure 4). In an example embodiment, the height 264 is greater than the height 229 of the central roller 204, such that the first central shaft 252 extends above the first end 212 of the central roller 204 and extends below the second end 214 of the central roller 204 when the first central shaft 252 is inserted through the central opening 259 in the central roller 202. [0078] The central support 250 may further include at least one cooperating second shaft 254 having a substantially cylindrical shape extending between a first end 260, coupled to the first central shaft 252, and an opposing second end 262 extending radially outward from the first central shaft 252. The one or more cooperating second shafts 254 may be substantially perpendicular or angled, such as forming an acute angle, with respect to the first central shaft 252 and may be equidistant around the first central shaft 252. Moreover, each cooperating shafts 254 may be configured with a size and a shape to accommodate supporting at least one cooperating roller 204. As shown in Figure 4, the central support 250 includes five cooperating second shafts 254 to accommodate five cooperating rollers 204. In an example embodiment, the first end 260 of the second shaft 254 may include at least one threaded end to facilitate coupling the second shaft 254 to the first central shaft 252. Other sizes, shapes, and configurations of the central support 250 are possible. [0079] Further, the central support 250 may include at least one air nozzle 263 (as best shown in Figure 11) positioned between at least two of the second shafts 254. The air nozzle 263 may be in fluid communication with an air source, such as air heater 1004 (best shown in Figures 17 and 20). The air nozzle 263 is configured to distribute air into the mist creation system 200. The distributed air provided through the air nozzle 263 may direct the plurality of droplets, once created, outward (e.g., away from the center support 250 and/or the rollers 202 and/or 204). The provided air also substantially prevents the droplets from forming on undesired surfaces, such as support shafts (e.g., support shaft 250). The provided air also facilitates moving the droplets away from the rollers 202 and/or 204. Moreover, the air from the air source is optional, as the mist creation system 200 may operate without additional air and operate using (e.g., only) airflow present in a spray dryer 1002 of the system 1000 and/or 2000. Any number of air nozzles 263 are possible. Moreover, in addition to or in place of air nozzles 263, a plurality of air nozzles, such as air nozzles 1030 (best shown in Figure 19C) may also be located in the platform 108 or top surface 1015 (best shown in Figures 19A, 19B, and 19C) of the spray dryer 1002 to direct droplets downward. [0080] Moreover, as shown in Figure 4, the central support 250 may include a plurality of alignment dowels 265 extending radially outward. In an example embodiment, the alignment dowels 265 are axially aligned with the axis 208 and radially positioned between the second shafts 254. Further, the alignment dowels 265 are configured to be positioned below the central roller 202 and above the second shafts 254 along the central support 250. The alignment dowels 265 also may be equidistant from one another. In an example embodiment, there are the same number of alignment dowels 265 as the number of second shafts 254 and/or the number of cooperating rollers 204. In such an example embodiment, at least one alignment dowel 265 is positioned between two adjacent shafts 254. The alignment dowels 265 are configured to mate with a dispenser 304 and position the dispenser 304 relative to the rest of the system 200. The alignment dowels 265 may also be replaced with ball joints, such that the ball joints may effectuate the alignment of the dispenser 304. [0081] Continuing with Figure 4, as shown, the first central shaft 252 may include a plurality of openings or channels 266 therein. The openings 266 are sized and shaped to accommodate at least one coupling rod or coupling mechanism 270 (as best shown in Figure 3) and/or at least one support rod therein. The coupling rod 270 is designed to couple the central support 250, along with the central roller 202 and cooperating roller 204, to the platform 108. In an example embodiment, as shown, the first central shaft 252 includes four openings 266, and each opening 266 is designed to accommodate a rod 270 therein. In an example embodiment, the central support 230, further includes an additional opening 271 is designed to be positioned within the center opening and extend the entire length of the central shaft 252. The opening 271 is designed to allow the passage of air engage at least one nozzle or opening 263. In comparison, the rod 270 may extend part way into the central shaft 252 (as best shown in Figure 8). [0082] Similarly, continuing with Figure 4, as shown, the second shaft 254 may include at least one opening or channel 272 therein. The opening 272 is sized and shaped to accommodate at least one coupling rod 274 (as best shown in Figure 8). The coupling rod 274 is designed to couple the cooperating roller 204 to a support structure 280. [0083] The support structure 280 is designed to prevent the cooperating roller 204 from sliding off the shaft 254 during operation of the mist creation system 200. The support structure 280 may be configured to be coupled substantially parallel to the first central shaft 252 and substantially perpendicular to or provided at an angle, such as an acute angle, with respect to the shaft 254. Further, the support structure 280 is configured to be coupled (e.g., upright) between the platform 108 and the rod 274 and/or the second end 262 of the shaft 254. The support structure 280 is designed to provide rigidity and substantially prevent the shaft 254 from deflecting, as deflection may negatively affect nip pressure. If the shaft 254 is stiff enough to support desired loads from the nip pressure without substantial deflection, the mist creating system 200 may be provided without the support structure 280. [0084] In addition to the support structure 280, the mist creation system 200 further may include a gear 282 (as best shown in Figure 5) driven by a timing belt 284 (as best shown in Figure 2), powered by the motor 102, to facilitate rotating the central roller 202. Further, a needle roller bearing 286 configured to accommodate a radial load during operation of the system 200 is coupled between the central roller 202 and the gear 282, and a needle (e.g., thrust) bearing 288 is coupled to the bearing 286, such that the bearing 288 is configured to accommodate an axial load during operation of the system 200. The gear 282, the needle roller bearing 286, and the needle bearing 288 may be coupled between the platform 108 and the first end 212 of the central roller 202 to facilitate rotation of the roller 202. Other arrangements may be used to drive the rotation of the central roller 202 including direct drive, gears, and/or pulleys. [0085] The mist creation system 200 further may include a fluid or feed inlet 300 (as best shown in Figure 6A) configured to feed a fluid (e.g., whey or milk), such as from a feed system 1006, to the system 200 in the spray dryer 1002. The fluid inlet 300 may be coupled to a feed or fluid tube 302, with an optional ball joint 303 (best shown in Figure 11), configured to guide fluid from the feed system 1006 to the dispenser 304. The fluid inlet 300 is connected to upstream processes (e.g., feed system 1006), within the spray drying system 1000, and may be connected to the mist creation systems 200, 400, and/or 500 by piping or tubing. A pump 1007 (best shown in Figures 17 and 20), such as a lobe pump or progressive cavity pump, may be upstream to create pressure and meter the fluid into each nip 222 (best shown in Figure 2) of the system 200, 400, and/or 500. Valves may be included to regulate the flow to each nip differently based on the pressure drop in each feed tube or if nip length or roller diameter is different for each nip. [0086] Continuing with Figure 6A, the feed tube 302 is configured to be inserted through an opening in the platform 108. The optional ball joint or other adjustable joints 303 (best shown in Figure 2) may facilitate (e.g., positional) adjustment of the dispenser 304. The dispenser 304 is configured to extend between the feed tube 302 and at least one alignment dowel 265, and the dispenser 304 may include a plurality of (e.g., equally spaced) outlets or openings configured to (e.g., evenly) distribute the fluid from the dispenser 304 and towards the nip 222. The dispenser 304 may be aligned along the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202. Moreover, in an example embodiment, a (e.g., small) gap may be formed between the dispenser 304 and the at least one cooperating roller 204 such that the gap is designed to spread the fluid (e.g., whey) into a (e.g., thin) substantially uniform film prior to the film entering the nip 222. Further, in an example embodiment, the dispenser 304 may overhang with respect to the at least one cooperating roller 204, such that unharvested fluid that may accumulate on a portion of the dispenser 304 may drip down and may be recirculated into the mist creation system 200. [0087] While the dispenser 304 may be positioned by coupling the dispenser 304 to a plate or the like, such as the central support 250, the dispenser 304 may be positioned with consistent spacing between the rollers 202 and/or 204. Turning to Figure 6B, the roller 202 and the roller 204 may rotate in opposite directions. As shown, the roller 202 may rotate in a first direction 301 (e.g., counterclockwise) and the roller 204 may rotate in a second direction 305 (e.g., clockwise). In an example embodiment, the first direction 301 is opposite of the second direction 305. In an example embodiment, the roller 202 or 204 with the larger diameter rotates in the first direction 301. [0088] Continuing with Figure 6B, at least one pad 306 may be positioned between the dispenser 304 and the central roller 202, and at least one pad 308 may be positioned between the dispenser 304 and the at least one cooperating roller 204. The at least one pad 306 and/or the at least one pad 308 may protrude an (e.g., offset) distance outward from the dispenser 304 to facilitate providing and maintaining consistent spacing between the dispenser 304 and the rollers 202 and/or 204. The at least one pad 306 and/or the at least one pad 308 may be provided from a low friction and/or low-wear material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), Polyoxymethylene (POM), Nylon, ultra-high molecular weight-polyethylene (UHMW-Polyethylene), or graphite, or may be a metal or ceramic coated with a low friction, low-wear coating compatible with the material of the rollers 202 and/or 204. The pads may be configured to interface with one or both of the rollers 202 and/or 204 and may provide consistent spacing between the rollers 202 and/or 204 and/or the dispenser 304. [0089] Turning to Figure 6C, in combination with or in an alternative to the at least one pad 306 and/or the at least one pad 308, at least one bearing or roller 310 may be positioned between the dispenser 304 and the central roller 202, and at least one bearing or roller 312 may be positioned between the dispenser 304 and the at least one cooperating roller 204. The at least one bearing 310 and/or the at least one bearing 312 may be configured to facilitate the dispenser 304 riding on (e.g., moving along) the central roller 202 and/or the at least one cooperating roller 204. Similar to the at least one pad 306 and/or 308, the at least one bearing 310 and/or 312 may provide an (e.g., offset) distance between the dispenser 304 and the rollers 202 and/or 204 to facilitate providing and maintaining consistent spacing between the dispenser 304 and the rollers 202 and/or 204. [0090] In another embodiment, the at least one bearing 310 and/or 312 may be positioned such that part of the bearing 310 and/or 312 is outside of the dispenser 304 and a portion of the bearing 310 and/or 312 is inside the dispenser 304. The dispenser 304 may be positioned, with a (e.g., small) shaft, such that the bearings 310 and/or 312 may be integral to or added to the dispenser 304. [0091] Turning to Figures 7 and 8, the at least one cooperating roller 204 may be coupled to the second shaft 254. In an example embodiment, the cooperating roller 204 is configured to move in an axial direction along the second shaft 254. The axial movement may be provided by a spring 290, such as a wave spring. The spring 290 may be configured to provide force to the nip 222, during operation of the system 200, for nip pressure to be maintained, even when the central roller 202 and/or the cooperating roller 204 expand due to heat. The nip pressure may enable a fluid filament to be created between the rollers 202 and/or 204. The fluid filament then breaks into a plurality of droplets. Moreover, the spring compression of the spring 290 and/or the nip pressure is adjustable through use of at least one threaded nut 292. For example, by rotating the threaded nut 292, (e.g., small) adjustments to the (e.g., respective) spring 290 and/or the cooperating roller 204 may be made to impact the forces provided by the roller 204, the spring compression of the spring 290, and/or the nip pressure. A space 293 around the spring 290 may be increased (e.g., tightening the nut 292) or decreased (e.g., loosening the nut 292) and may limit the axial movement of the cooperating roller 204 on the second shaft 254. The at least one threaded nut 292 may also prevent the roller 204 from sliding off the second shaft 254 during operation of the mist creation system 200. In an alternative embodiment the nuts 292 may be replaced with at least one spacer such that the force of the spring 290 is adjusted by changing the thickness or number of spacers. [0092] Further, in order to facilitate turning the roller 204, a needle bearing 294 (e.g., at or near the end 218) is coupled within the roller 204 along the shaft 254 and a needle roller bearing 296 (e.g., at or near the end 220) is coupled to the bearing 294 within the roller 204 along the shaft 254. In another example embodiment, the bearings 294 and/or 296 may be one or more of a needle bearing, a ball bearing, a thrust bearing, or any combination of bearings. [0093] The mist creation system 200 may further include at least one tachometer 298 (best shown in Figure 2) coupled to the support structure 280 configured to monitor a speed of rotation (e.g., of the first outer surface) of the central roller 202 and/or monitor a speed of rotation (e.g., of the second outer surface) of the at least one cooperating roller 204. During operation, the speed of rotation of the outer surface 210 can be different than the speed of rotation of the outer surface 216. In an example embodiment, the speed of rotation of the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202 may be faster than the speed of rotation of the outer surface 216 of the at least one cooperating roller 204. Further, in an example embodiment, the speed of rotation of the central roller 202 may be between about 300 rpm and about 8000 rpm (e.g., rotations per minute). [0094] Moreover, the mist creation system 200 may further include at least one load cell coupled to the support structure 280 configured to monitor a force between the central roller 202 and the at least one cooperating roller 204 to maintain the desired nip pressure of the nip 222. [0095] Turning to Figure 9B, the created mist is directed or sprayed away from the central roller 202 and the cooperating roller 204 at a spray cone angle, . Differences in the diameter of the rollers 202 and/or 204 may induce a bias in towards the side of the smaller roller (e.g., the roller with the smaller diameter) due to greater centripetal forces. Similarly, stronger adhesion, measured as a lower contact angle , to one roller material (e.g., metal or rubber) may bias to the roller with the lower contact angle . The contact angle of the fluid on a roller interface, such as on the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202 or the outer surface 216 of the cooperating roller 204, should be lower for the central (e.g., larger) roller 202 than for the cooperating (e.g., smaller) roller 204. The central roller 202 should have greater adhesion to the fluid than adhesion to the cooperating roller 204. This may facilitate preventing spray cone bias towards the roller(s) 202 and/or 204 that is smaller (e.g., has a small diameter). The central roller 202, as shown in Figure 9B, may have a diameter D1 and a fluid contact angle 1, and the cooperating roller 204 may have a diameter D2 and a contact angle 2, and the rollers 202 and 204 may create a spray cone or spray angle during operation. Expressed numerically, providing (e.g., ensuring) that 1 < 2 for D2 < D1 may reduce biasing of the spray cone . [0096] In another embodiment, if the size of the central roller 202 is the same as the cooperating roller 204, a spray cone bias may be towards the surface of the roller 202 or 204 with the greater adhesion to the fluid. [0097] In a further embodiment, turning to Figure 9C, centripetal force and fluid adhesion may create a spray bias to the (e.g., D2) side. Expressed numerically, providing (e.g., ensuring) that 2 < 1 for D2 < D1 may impact biasing of the spray cone . [0098] As shown in Figure 3 and Figures 10-13, another example embodiment of a mist creation system 400 is provided. The mist creation system 400 is similar to the mist creation system 200 as described hereinabove; however, the mist creation system 400 includes at least one additional (e.g., second) central roller 402. In an example embodiment, the second central roller 402 may be substantially similar to the central roller 202; however, the position of the second central roller 402 may be substantially opposite (e.g., turned upside down or inverted with respect to) that of the central roller 202. Thus, the first central roller 202 may be considered an upper roller and the second central roller 402 may be considered a lower roller. The at least one cooperating roller 204 may be positioned between the first central roller 202 and (e.g., end 212 of) the second central roller 402. In an example embodiment, the second central roller 402 may be provided with a size and shape that is substantially the same as the central roller 202. In another example embodiment, the second central roller 402 may have a size that is different than the size of the central roller 202. [0099] Continuing with Figures 10-13, the second central roller 402 may be coupled to the central shaft 250 with a coupler or support 410 (as best shown in Figures 11 and 12). The coupler 410 may include a spring 412, such as a wave spring, at least one bearing 416, and at least one threaded nut 414 configured to provide adjustments to the height of the coupler 410 along the central shaft 252. Adjusting the coupler 410, such as the threaded nut 414, may adjust compression of the spring 412 and in turn move the rollers 202 and/or 402 vertically along the shaft 252. The nut 414 may also be replaced with a spacer of variable thickness, such that changing the number or thickness of the spacers may change the compression of the spring 412 for substantially the same effect. These adjustments also facilitate maintaining the nip pressure of the nip 222. The coupler 410 may be coated to substantially prevent droplets from collecting on the spring 412, bearing 414, and/or nut 416 during operation. [00100] As shown in Figure 11, the mist creation system 400 may further include at least one load cell 418 coupled to the coupler 410 configured to monitor a force between the central roller 402 and the at least one cooperating roller 204 to maintain the desired nip pressure. [00101] The second central roller 402 may include an outer surface 420 extending between a first end having a first diameter and a second end having a second diameter. The at least one cooperating roller 204 and the second central roller 402 form at least one second (e.g., bottom) nip 422 formed between the outer surface 420 of the second central roller 402 and the outer surface 216 of the at least one cooperating roller 204. Providing at least one second (e.g., bottom) central roller 402 doubles the number of nips provided in the mist creation system (e.g., the number of nips 222 plus the number of nips 422). Thus, there a plurality of (e.g., upper) nips created with the outer surface of the central roller 202 and a plurality of (e.g., lower) nips created between the outer surface of the second central roller 402. In the example embodiment, the number of upper nips is the same number of lower nips. [00102] Turning to Figure 14, an array 500 of mist creation systems 400 are provided. In an example embodiment, the array 500 includes two mist creation systems 400, such that a first mist creation system 404 is coupled or positioned (e.g., vertically) above a second powder creation system 406. The first mist creation system 404 and the second mist creation system 406 may be positioned co-axially along the axis 206. In this example embodiment, the array 500 may include a single support shaft 250 or may include a plurality of support shafts 250 coupled together to support the systems 404 and 406. In the example embodiment including two powder creation systems 404 and 406, the systems 404 and 406 collectively may provide twenty nips (e.g., ten nips 222, plus ten nips 422), as compared to the ten nips (e.g., five nips 222, plus five nips 422) provided by a single powder creation system 400, as shown in Figures 10-13, increasing (e.g., doubling) the output of created mist. [00103] In an example embodiment, as shown in Figure 14, the array 500 may include four central rollers (e.g., two rollers 202, plus two rollers 402) with ten cooperating rollers 204 (e.g., five cooperating rollers 204 between two central rollers, plus another five cooperating rollers 204 between another two central rollers 202) creating twenty nips 222. In an example embodiment, with each nip 222 has a length 228 of about 65mm, the nip length for twenty nips 222 totals 1300mm. [00104] In further embodiments, the array 500 may have a plurality of mist creation systems 400, such as more than two mist creation systems 400, wherein the additional mist creation systems 400 may be (e.g., stacked) above and/or below one another. [00105] Turning to Figures 15 and 16, another example embodiment is provided. The central roller 202 includes the center opening 259; however, as compared to Figure 3B, the at least one cooperating roller 204 in Figures 15 and 16 is a first cooperating roller having a first end 502 and a second cooperating roller having a first end 504, and the first end 502 of the first cooperating roller is positioned closer to the center opening 259 than the first end 504 of the second cooperating roller. [00106] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the rollers 204 are offset on the surface 210 of the central roller 202. The offsets of the rollers are designed so that the spray cone from each cooperating roller 204 doesn’t interfere with the spray cone of another corresponding roller 204. The sizes of the rollers 204 may be adjusted to match the speed of the central roller 202 to produce similar mist to each other. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 15 and 16, the cooperating rollers 204 may have different sizes; however, the cooperating rollers 204 may be positioned substantially equidistant from the next respective cooperating roller 204 around the central opening 259. Other configurations of the cooperating rollers 204 are possible, such as where the cooperating rollers 204 are not substantially equidistant. [00107] Turning to Figure 17, the mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500 is installed in an example spray dry system 1000. The spray dry system 1000 includes at least a spray dryer or drying chamber 1002, an air source or air heater 1004, a feed system 1006 including a pump 1007, and/or a separator 1008. Although shown with a plurality of components, the spray dry system 1000 may include more or less components. For example, the spray dry system 1000 also may include an exhaust system in communication with the separator 1008 to draw air from the separator 1008 and direct exhaust air away from the separator 1008, a powder collection system in communication with the separator 1008 to collect the powder, a control panel configured to monitor temperature, flow, pressure, and/or the like, and/or a cooling system configured to keep the powder at a predetermined temperature. [00108] Continuing with Figure 17, the spray dry system 1000 includes the air heater 1004 in communication with the spray dryer 1002, and the air heater 1004 is configured to provide (e.g., heated) air to the spray dryer 1002. The air may be heated by electricity, gas, and/or steam. Further, the air heater 1004 may include an air filter to clean incoming air and/or a fan to move the (e.g. heated) air from the heater 1004 to the spray dryer 1002. [00109] The spray dry system 1000 also includes the feed system 1006. The feed system 1006 is also in communication with the mist system 200, 400, and/or 500 coupled within the spray dryer 1002. The feed system 1006 is configured to hold the fluid in a tank prior to entering the mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500. The pump 1007 of the feed system 1006 is configured to move the fluid from the tank to the mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500. The feed system 1006, as shown, is configured to feed a fluid (e.g., whey or milk) to the mist creation system 100 and/200 via an inlet, such as the feed inlet 300, which in turn is fed to a dispenser, such as the dispenser 304. The fluid is fed into the mist creation system 200 and/or 400 [00110] Continuing with Figure 17, the spray dryer 1002 includes a body 1010. The body 1010 includes at least one mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500 coupled therein. In an example embodiment, the body 1010 may include a cylindrical portion 1012 having an outer surface 1014 and a top surface 1015, and a conical portion 1016 having an outer surface 1018 extending (e.g., downward) from the cylindrical portion 1012. The top surface 1015 may be integrally formed with the platform 108 (as best shown in Figure 1), or the platform 108 may be separate from and coupled to the top surface 1015. In an example embodiment, at least one mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500 are coupled to a (e.g., center of) the top surface 1015 of the body 1010 of the spray dryer 1002. [00111] As shown in Figures 18A, 18B, and 18C, the spray dryer 1002 may include an air curtain 1022 configured to receive (e.g., heated) air from the air heater 1004 and direct the (e.g., heated air) into and through the spray dryer 1002. The air curtain 1022 may have a circular shape and may be formed at least partially within the top surface 1020 of the body 1010. The air curtain 1022 facilitates providing (e.g., substantially) even (e.g., downward) airflow 1024 within the spray dryer 1002. The air curtain 1022 is sized to have a diameter that is less than the diameter of the outer surface 1014 of the cylindrical portion 1012 and greater than an outer diameter of the (e.g., entire) mist creation system 200, such that the air curtain 1022 is configured to distribute air (e.g., substantially evenly) around the mist creation system 200. Further, in an example embodiment, the air curtain 1022 is provided with the same shape as the outer surface 1014. Other shapes and sizes of the air curtain 1022 are possible. [00112] The airflow provided to the spray dryer 1002, is configured to direct the mist created (e.g., from the one or more nips 222 of at least one mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500) within the spray dryer 1002. The air further may reduce the moisture or solvent content of the mist and increase the solid content of the mist to a point where the mist becomes a powder, which is then separated from the moist air and may be further processed. [00113] As shown in Figures 19A, 19B, and 19C, the spray dryer 1002 may include a plurality of air nozzles 1030. Similar to the air curtain 1022, the air nozzles 1030 may be configured to receive (e.g., heated) air from the air heater 1004 and direct the (e.g., heated air) into and through the spray dryer 1002. The air nozzles 1030 may be provided in addition to or in place of the air curtain 1022. [00114] The air nozzles 1030 may be coupled to the top surface 1015 and may be positioned circumferentially around the mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500 to direct air (e.g., substantially evenly) downward from the top surface 1015. The number of air nozzles 1030 may be substantially the same as the number of cooperating rollers 104 provided within the mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500. In other example embodiments, the spray dryer 1002 may not include the air curtain 1022 and/or may not include the air nozzles 1030. In further example embodiments, any number of air nozzles 1030 are provided. [00115] The mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500 may be coupled to the top surface 1020 of the cylindrical portion 1012, such that when the mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500 is in operation, the mist created sprays downward and/or outward within the spray dryer 1002. The mist within the spray dyer 1002 comes into contact with heated air from the air heater 1004 leading to the evaporation of moisture or solvent within the spray dryer 1002 and creates particles or powder 1032 from the mist. The air and/or powder is directed downward and arrives at or near an opening 1021 (e.g., in or near the bottom) of the conical portion 1016 of the spray dryer 1002. The air and/or the powder, after exiting the spray dryer 1002, is then directed to the separator 1008. The separator 1008 is configured to separate the powder 1032 from exhaust air 1034. The separator 1008 may include a (e.g., tight) radius of curvature operating at a substantially high speed to separate the powder from hot moist air. The separator 1008 may be a centrifugal separator configured to use centrifugal force. The powder 1032 may then be collected from the separator 1008 for storage, and the exhaust air 1034 may be moved away from the separator 1008 for disposal. [00116] Turning to Figures 20, 21A, 21B, and 21C, the mist creation system 200, 400, and/or 500 is installed in another example spray dry system 2000. The spray dry system 2000 may be the spray dry system 1000; however, the spray dry system 2000 includes a plurality of air vanes 2002 rather than having the air curtain 1022 and/or the plurality of air nozzles 1030. The air vanes 2002 are configured to receive (e.g., heated) air from the air heater 1004 and direct the (e.g., heated air) into and through the spray dryer 1002. Moreover, the air vanes 2002 are configured to be formed circumferentially around and within the outer surface 1014 of the cylindrical portion of the spray dryer 1002 and may be configured to provide an (e.g., spiral) airflow 2004 within the spray dryer 1002. [00117] A method 600, as shown in Figure 22, of creating a mist from a fluid is provided. The fluid may be provided by the feed system 1006. The method includes the step 602 of applying a fluid (e.g., a dairy fluid such as whey or milk) to the (e.g., first) outer surface 210 of a central roller 202 and/or a (e.g., second) outer surface 216 of a cooperating roller 204 which is substantially perpendicular to or provided at an angle, such as an acute angle, with respect to the central roller 202. The fluid may be fed from the feed system 1006 into the feed tube 302, via inlet 300, for the dispenser 304 to dispense the fluid to the rollers 202 and/or 204. In an example embodiment, the fluid dispenser 304 may dispense the fluid at different flow rates along the length of the nip 222. In another example embodiment, the fluid dispenser 304 may dispense the fluid at a substantially constant flow rate along the length of the nip 222. The fluid may adhere to at least one of the first outer surface 210 or the second outer surface 216. [00118] The method 600 then moves to step 604. In step 604, in system 200, as the central roller 202 rotates in a direction at a first speed and the cooperating roller 204 rotates in an opposite direction at a second speed, that may be different than the first speed, the fluid stretches along at least one nip 222 formed between the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202 and the outer surface 216 of the cooperating roller 204 to form a fluid filament. In system 400, including more than one central roller 202, such as roller 202 and 402 (as shown in at least Figure 13), the fluid stretches along at least one nip 222 formed between the outer surface 210 of the central roller 202 and the outer surface 216 of the cooperating roller 204 to form a first fluid filament, and the fluid stretches along at least one nip 422 formed between the outer surface 420 of the central roller 402 and the outer surface 216 of the cooperating roller 204 to form a second fluid filament. [00119] The method 600 then moves to step 606. In step 606, the (e.g., first and/or second) fluid filament breaks into a plurality of droplets (e.g., creating a mist) within the spray dryer 1002. [00120] Once the plurality of droplets (e.g., mist) are created, the method 600 then moves to step 608 of spraying the plurality of droplets, such as in the direction (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the nip 222) and/or in a direction (e.g., downward) away from at least one of the central roller 202 and/or 402 and/or the at least one cooperating roller 204. In addition, the optional air source (such as air heater 1004, shown best in Figures 17 and 20) may provide additional air through at least one air nozzle 263 to further direct the plurality of droplets away from the rollers 202, 204, and/or 402. In another embodiment, the air curtain 1022 and/or the air nozzles 1030 also may facilitate directing the created mist within the spray dryer 1002. [00121] The method 600 further includes step 610, following step 608, of drying the plurality of droplets to form a powder. The mist is harvested by airflow within the spray dryer 1002, whereas the low moisture content and/or heat within the (e.g., body of the) spray dryer 1002 increases the solid content of the mist and causes the mist to become a powder. [00122] The method 600 also includes step 612, following the step 610, of collecting and/or harvesting the powder, such as from the collection basin. The powder is then further processed based on the desired use (e.g., needs) of the product. [00123] The method 600 further may include cycling (e.g., recirculating) mist that fails to dry or that stick to portions of the mist creation system 200 back into the system 200. [00124] While some embodiments have been illustrated and described in detail in the appended drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected in practicing the claims, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. The mere fact that certain measures or features are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures or features cannot be used. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is: 1. A mist creation system configured to create a mist from a fluid, the mist creation system comprising: a central roller having a first axis and a first outer surface; at least one cooperating roller having a second outer surface extending between a first end having a first diameter and a second end having a second diameter, wherein the second diameter is greater than the first diameter, the at least one cooperating roller having a second axis, wherein the second axis is provided at an angle with respect to the first axis of the central roller; and at least one nip formed between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller. 2. The mist creation system of claim 1, wherein the central roller has a conical frustum shape, and the at least one cooperating roller has a conical frustum shape, and the angle is an acute angle or a substantially perpendicular angle. 3. The mist creation system of claim 1, wherein the central roller is a first central roller, further comprising a second central roller, wherein the at least one cooperating roller comprises a first cooperating roller and a second cooperating roller, wherein the first cooperating roller and the second cooperating roller are positioned between the first central roller and the

second central roller, wherein the at least one nip is a first nip, and wherein the first cooperating roller forms a second nip with the second central roller. 4. The mist creation system of claim 3, further comprising a feed system configured to feed a fluid to the at least one nip, and the feed system is configured to feed a fluid to the second nip. 5. The mist creation system of claim 1, wherein the central roller is configured to rotate in a first direction and the at least one cooperating roller is configured to rotate in a second direction, wherein the first direction is opposite the second direction. 6. The mist creation system of claim 1, wherein the at least one cooperating roller comprises a first cooperating roller and a second cooperating roller, wherein the first cooperating roller and the second cooperating roller have different sizes. 7. A mist creation system, comprising: a central roller having a first axis and a first outer surface; at least one cooperating roller having a second outer surface, the at least one cooperating roller having a second axis, wherein the second axis is provided at an angle with respect to the first axis of the central roller; at least one nip formed between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller; a fluid source configured to coat at least one of the first outer surface of the central roller or the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller with a fluid; and a driving element configured to drive the central roller in a first direction and drive the at least one cooperating roller in a second opposite direction to cause the fluid to be drawn through the at least one nip, wherein a filament of the fluid is stretched between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller until the filament breaks into a plurality of droplets. 8. The mist creation system of claim 7, wherein the central roller is a first central roller, further comprising a second central roller, wherein the at least one cooperating roller is positioned between the first central roller and the second central roller, and wherein the at least one cooperating roller forms a second nip with the second central roller. 9. The mist creation system of claim 7, further comprising a central support comprising a plurality of airflow devices configured to direct air toward the at least one cooperating roller. 10. The mist creation system of claim 7, further comprising at least one fan configured to provide airflow to the mist creating system. 11. The mist creation system of claim 7, further comprising a wave spring configured to move the at least one cooperating roller to substantially maintain nip pressure between the first outer surface of the central roller and the second outer surface of the at least one cooperating roller. 12. The mist creation system of claim 7, further comprising a feed system configured to receive the fluid from the fluid source and a dispenser in fluid communication with the feed system, wherein the dispenser is configured to dispense the fluid. 13. The mist creation system of claim 12, further comprising a first bearing provided between the dispenser and the central roller, and a second bearing provided between the dispenser and the at least one cooperating roller, wherein the first bearing and the second bearing are configured to facilitate the dispenser riding on at least one of the central roller or the at least one cooperating roller. 14. The mist creation system of claim 13, wherein the first bearing provides an offset distance between the dispenser and the central roller, and wherein the second bearing provides an offset distance between the dispenser and the at least one cooperating roller. 15. The mist creation system of claim 12, further comprising a first pad configured to provide a first offset distance between the dispenser and the central roller, and a second pad configured to provide a second offset distance between the dispenser and the at least one cooperating roller. 16. The mist creation system of claim 7, wherein the angle is an acute angle or a substantially perpendicular angle, and the plurality of droplets are configured to spray outward in a direction away from the first outer surface of the central roller. 17. The mist creation system of claim 7, wherein the central roller includes a center opening, the at least one cooperating roller is a first cooperating roller having a first end and a second cooperating roller having a first end, the first end of the first cooperating roller is positioned closer to the center opening than the first end of the second cooperating roller. 18. The mist creation system of claim 7, wherein the central roller has an adhesion to the fluid that is greater than an adhesion of the fluid to the at least one cooperating roller. 19. A method of creating a mist from a fluid, comprising: applying the fluid to at least one of a first outer surface of a central roller or a second outer surface of a cooperating roller, wherein a first axis of the cooperating roller is provided at angle with respect to a second axis of the central roller, wherein the fluid adheres to at least one of the first outer surface or the second outer surface; stretching the fluid along a nip formed between the first outer surface and the second outer surface to form a fluid filament; causing the fluid filament to break into a plurality of droplets; and spraying the plurality of droplets in a direction substantially perpendicular to the nip or in a direction away from at least one of the central roller or the at least one cooperating roller. 20. A method of claim 19, further comprising drying the plurality of droplets to form a powder, and collecting the powder.