Interface-Resolved Simulation of Bubbles–Metal–Slag Multiphase System in a Gas-Stirred Ladle

Abstract

A grid-filtered scale interface-resolved volume of fluid (VoF) model coupling a sub-grid scale large eddy simulation (LES) was used to directly simulate bubble behavior and the evolution of multiphase interfaces and free surfaces in a bubble–metal–slag multiphase system. The model has been applied to an industrial 150-ton gas-stirred ladle. The results show transient behavior of the slag eye, with large variations over time of the eye size. Bubble detachment frequency and rise characteristics (including coalescence and breakup) directly affect the size, position and variation of the slag eye. The effects of the argon flow rate, slag thickness, slag viscosity, and slag–steel interfacial energy were investigated; the latter two have little effect. The calculated average slag eye size agrees with previously reported results for industrial ladles. A new correlation for the time-averaged slag eye area, based on the modified Froude number, is proposed for industrial ladles.