Mathematical Modeling of Transport Processes in Funnel Shaped Mold of Steel Thin Slab Continuous Caster

Abstract

In this work a three-dimensional fluid flow and heat transfer model was developed to predict the flow pattern and superheat dissipation in funnel shaped mold of a thin slab continuous caster with a novel tetrafurcated design for the submerged entry nozzle. Low Reynolds k−ε turbulent model was adopted to account for the turbulent effect. The transport equations were solved numerically using finite volume method. The results were compared with a full scale water model of the caster. Good agreement between mathematical and physical models was obtained. Parametric studies were carried out to evaluate the effect of casting speed, nozzle submergence depth, and inlet temperature on the superheat dissipation, flow pattern, and surface turbulence in the mold region. The results indicate a special flow pattern and heat distribution in the caster while using a tetrafurcated nozzle. Aiming to achieve more product capacity, in the case of casting with lower superheat temperature, a higher casting speed, together with higher submergence depth, is recommended in order to avoid surface turbulence and high heat flux across the narrow face.