Simulation and Modeling of the Population Balance of Argon Bubbles in Slab Molds
(Room 205B)
09 May 17
4:30 PM
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5:00 PM
Density number and size distribution of argon bubbles in slab molds are dependent on argon flowrate and casting speed. Both variables were quantified using a water-air physical model and an image analysis software under different flowrates of gas and constant casting speed and nozzle immersion. It was found that above 15 l/minute, the flow is completely decoupled. The size distributions of bubbles follow a log-normal curve; larger sizes are located close to the nozzle port, and smaller bubbles are dragged close to the narrow phase of the mold. These results were simulated through solutions of the Population Balance Equation (PBE). The computed variables agree very well with those calculated, enabling the use of mathematical models to study multiphase flows in actual continuous casting molds and tundishes.