Prediction of Granulated Slag Properties Produced from Spinning Disk Atomizer by Mathematical Model

Abstract

A mathematical model of a spinning disk atomizer (SDA) was developed to produce glass beads from high-temperature molten slag. The model comprises three parts: 1) fluid flow model of molten slag on the spinning disk, 2) physical model of ligament formation of slag, and 3) heat transfer model of slag drops dispersed from the ligament. First, a 2-D fluid flow model was developed to evaluate the film thickness of slag at the edge of the disk and was calculated using the scalar equation method (SEM). Next, the number and diameter of the ligaments formed were evaluated using the physical model. Finally, the heat transfer model was employed to evaluate the quenching rate and temperature distribution within the drop. The model developed was experimentally validated by comparing the calculated and observed values that were in good agreement. Most significantly, the model also estimated the quenching rate required for slag vitrification.