Multiphase vortex flow patterns in slab caster mould: insights of air vortex interaction and plant data analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Vortexing in continuous slab casting can entrain mould powder and thus damage the slab quality. In this investigation, a 0.4-scale water caster has been employed to explore the interaction between air and vortices. Black sesame seeds are injected into the water to get the better visualisation of air-vortex interaction. Momentum exchange between ascending air bubbles and vortexing has caused variations in both frequencies and characteristics of the vortices. SEN port clogging would introduce multiphase flow asymmetry. The consequence of the multiphase flow asymmetry on air bubbles sizes is explained. In order to reconcile the observations of water model experiments, mould powder entrained sliver data has been collected for analysis. ROCK clustering algorithm is applied on this data set. The largest cluster produced by the algorithm represents the data combination of shallow submergence depth, high casting speed and high value of SEN operation duration. This result is in perfect tune with the observations of multiphase water flow experiments.