Uniformity evaluation and optimization of fluid flow characteristics in a seven-strand tundish

Abstract

The effect of flow control devices (FCDs) on the uniformity of flow characteristics in a seven-strand symmetrical trapezoidal tundish was studied using both an experimental 1:2.5 hydraulic model and a numerical simulation of a 1:1 geometric model. The variation coefficient (CV) was defined to evaluate the flow uniformity of the seven-strand tundish. An optimized FCD configuration was proposed on the basis of the evaluation of experimental results. It is concluded that a turbulence inhibitor (TI) and U-type dam are essential to improve the uniformity of fluid flow in the seven-strand tundish. In addition, the configuration of inclination T-type dams with a height of 200 mm between the second and third strands and with a height of 300 mm between the third and fourth strands can minimize the proportion of dead zone. After optimizing the configuration of FCDs, the variation coefficient reduces below 20% of the mean value, and the average proportion of dead zone is just 14.6%; in addition, the temperature fluctuation between the strands could be controlled within 0.6 K. In summary, the uniformity of flow and temperature in the seven-strand tundish is greatly improved.