Numerical Analysis of RTD Curves and Inclusions Removal in a Multi-Strand Asymmetric Tundish with Different Configuration of Impact Pad

Markéta Tkadlečková,Tomáš Huczala,Karel Michalek,Josef Walek

doi:10.3390/met10070849

Markéta Tkadlečková, Tomáš Huczala + Show 2 more

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https://doi.org/10.3390/met10070849

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Abstract

To effectively remove non-metallic inclusions from the steel during the flowing in a five-strand asymmetric tundish, the novel configuration of the impact pad was developed. For analysis, complex numerical modelling in the programme ANSYS Fluent was used. The Lagrangian Discrete Phase Model of inclusion tracking was applied. The distribution of inclusions, with sizes ranging from 2 µm to 100 µm and density from 2500 to 3500 kg·m−3, was considered only through the shroud tube. The residence time distribution (RTD) curves and inclusion removal efficiency were used for evaluation of steady state steel flow character depending on internal configuration of a tundish with an impact pad in two design modifications (Modification 1—M1, Modification 2—M2). The preliminary results showed that in the case of asymmetric geometry plays a role the computational mesh independency. The assembly method with cut cell approach was satisfactory even when the tundish geometry was changed. The RTD curves with an M1 showed a huge dead volume in the tundish. In the case with an M2, the RTD curves are more or less uniform for all casting strands, and the removal of inclusions to slag increased from about 55% up to 70% in comparison with M1.

Highlights

IntroductionThe world production of continuously cast steel accounts for 96% of the total
At present, the world production of continuously cast steel accounts for 96% of the total
The distribution and tracing of inclusions are assessed both by residence times and distribution profiles of inclusions as well as by the removal efficiency of inclusions obtained from the data statements of the calculation

Summary

Introduction

The world production of continuously cast steel accounts for 96% of the total. 92% of steel is cast by continuous casting [1]. During the continuous casting of steel, the ladle with steel melt is placed on the rotating casting stand of a casting machine. The steel is cast through the shroud tube into the tundish. The steel is taken through the submerged entry nozzle to the oscillating moulds (in the primary cooling zone), where the “controlled”. There, under the moulds, is a system of guiding and supportive rollers (the secondary cooling zone), including refrigerating nozzles, which ensure the drawing, transforming, and cooling of the casting strand of steel [2,3]

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