Numerical Simulation of the Influence of Taylor Vortex on the Apparent Viscosity Measurement of Semi-Solid Metallic Based On ANSYS Fluent

Abstract

The apparent viscosity of semi-solid metallic slurry with a low solid fraction, which is one of the most essential parameters for representing the rheological behavior, is mainly measured by the concentric cylinder rotational approach. The principle of this method is based on the assumptions that the fluid is in an ideal laminar flow state and obey the Newton’s internal friction law. However, as the angular velocity ω increases, the fluid undergoes a transition from a stable laminar flow state to a Taylor vortex and turbulent flow state. These unstable flow conditions such as Taylor vortex and turbulence have a severe impact on the accuracy of apparent viscosity measurement. However, these unstable flow conditions are difficult to monitored and analyzed in real time through experimental methods. Computer numerical simulation technology provides the possibility and convenience for the visualization of the flow state of the semi-solid metallic slurry in the measurement system. In this work, ANSYS Fluent was used to simulate the apparent viscosity measurement process of semi-solid slurry, and the flow state transition process of the semi-solid slurry in the measurement system was successfully visualized and analyzed. In order to avoid the influence of Taylor vortex, combined with the measurement principle of the concentric cylinder rotational rheometer and Taylor’s study on flow stability, the empirical equation of limiting speed to avoid Taylor vortex in the process of Searle rheometer viscosity measurement is given.