Simulation of flow control in the meniscus of a continuous casting mold with opposing alternating current magnetic fields

Abstract

A numerical simulation was performed for a novel electromagnetic stirring system that employs two rotating magnetic fields. The system controls stirring flow in the meniscus region of a continuous casting mold independently from the stirring induced within the remaining volume of the mold by a main electromagnetic stirring (M-EMS) system. This control is achieved by applying to the meniscus region an alternating current-stirring modifier (AC-SM) whose direction of rotation is opposite to that of the main magnetic field produced by the M-EMS. The model computes values and spatial distributions of electromagnetic parameters and fluid flow in stirred pools of mercury in cylindrical and square pools. Also predicted are the relationships between electromagnetics and fluid flows pertinent to a dynamic equilibrium of the opposing stirring swirls in the meniscus region. Results of the numerical simulation compared well with the measurements obtained from experiments with mercury pools.