Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer in the Liquid Pool

Xiaoqing Huang and Brian Thomas

Continuous Casting Consortium

Three dimensional finite difference models are being applied to predict turbulent fluid flow in the liquid pool contained by the solidifying shell. The models include two phase flow effects due to argon gas injection, dissipation of superheat, and the movement of inclusion particles. The effect of transient motion of the top "free" surface is currently being incorporated mathematically and investigated. The results are needed to understand and prevent flow and inclusion-related defects.

This figure shows the typical velocity pattern calculated in one quarter of a continuous casting mold using the 3-D finite difference model. The corresponding temperature profiles are shown in the adjacent frame. The jet of steel entering the mold is seen to carry heat with it to impinge on the narrow face just above mold exit (depending on the nozzle geometry and argon gas flow rate). Flow turns upward and runs along the top surface back towards the nozzle. Most of the superheat is dissipated in the mold, as indicated by the deep blue temperature, signifying the liquidus temperature.

For further information, see:

• Huang, X., B. G. Thomas, and F. M. Najjar, "Modeling Superheat Removal during Continuous Casting of Steel Slabs", Metallurgical Transactions B, Vol. 23B, No. 3, (June), 1992, pp. 339-356. Click here for a PDF version. (19.2 MB)
  
  
• Thomas, B. G., L. M. Mika, and F. M. Najjar, "Simulation of Fluid Flow Inside a Continuous Slab Casting Machine," Metallurgical Transactions B, Vol. 21B, No. 2, 387-400, April 1990. Click here for a PDF version. (18.7 MB)