Numerical Simulation of Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow in Glass Tank Furnace after Bubbling

Abstract

Numerical method to simulate the effect of air bubblers on glass melt flow and heat transfer in glass tank furnace is presented in this paper. The numerical simulation is preformed by using Gambit and Fluent software. Results of numerical simulation for glass melt flow and heat transfer with and without air bubbling technology are compared. The roles of stirring air bubblers installed in different locations played are discussed. The results show that mathematical model established in this paper can better simulate the glass melt circulation and heat transfer in glass tank furance, and air bubbler has a significant effect on glass melt circulation and heat transfer, and the best installation locations should be chosen by calculating in order to make full use of the air bubblers. Air bubbling technology will improve the quality of glass obviously if it is used properly. The results obtained can provide reference for engineering design of glass tank furnaces.