Prediction of mass transfer regimes in a steelmaking ladle

Abstract

The paper deals with the prediction of the mass transfer between liquid steel and slag in a steelmaking ladle. Predictions are realized with OpenFOAM® and Volume of Fluid (VoF) method is selected for the interface modeling. Two mass transfer regimes are observed in water models and industrial configurations when the gas flow rate increases. The transition between them depends on formation of slag droplets. It is observed that the average shear stress between liquid steel and slag is not the key parameter affecting the mass transfer. The interface area between liquid steel and slag is the driving mechanism for the mass transfer.