Numerical Study of Melting of Scrap Metal

Abstract

A one-dimensional time-dependent heat transfer model is presented for the melting process in a circular scrap melter. The phase change problem is tackled using an enthalpy-based method, and the complex scrap geometry is described with the porosity concept, i.e., the blocking effect of the scrap is represented by a blocking factor that is a function of the scrap porosity. Flame length is represented by a flame damping factor. The numerical procedure is carried out in three stages, from initial heating to complete melting. Some typical cases are simulated. Results show that the flame damping factor can significantly influence the melting process. A lower damping factor gives better uniformity in metal temperature distribution. The melting time can be improved drastically by decreasing this factor. The convective heat transfer coefficient dominates the temperature profile. The higher the convective heat transfer, the faster the temperature increase in the lower part of the furnace. A long flame and good stirring of the melt enhance the melting process.