Research on the process optimization of inclusion removal in AOD furnace

This study employs the Volume of Fluid (VOF) polyphase flow model and the DPM model to numerically simulate the flow dynamics of the plume inside the Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) furnace under different side-blowing flow rate conditions. The focus is on analyzing the slag layer disturbance, slag entrainment behavior, wall shear force distribution, and the evolution of the bubble plume. The results indicate that during the initial phase, bubbles enter the furnace at a high velocity. Once inside the furnace, the kinetic energy of the bubbles is gradually dissipated, transitioning to buoyancy-dominated upward motion, which causes the bubbles to rise and push the slag surface, forming slag eyes. At a flow rate of 35 Nm³/min, the slag layer experiences disturbances, but no slag entrainment is observed. However, when the flow rate increases to 45 Nm³/min, large slag droplets are entrained into the liquid steel, leading to the formation of a clear slag entrainment phenomenon. A suitable side-blowing flow rate, such as 40 Nm³/min, effectively stabilizes the flow field and prevents unstable flow patterns. Under high flow rate conditions, the wall shear force near the nozzle region is significantly increased, and the shear force extends further from the nozzle. This may exacerbate the erosion of the furnace's refractory materials. Overall, the numerical simulation results provide a theoretical basis for optimizing bubble behavior and AOD furnace flow field design.