Self-similarity phenomena of discharge jets in conventional slab mould

Abstract

Fluid flow in slab moulds is characterised through numerical simulations using the Reynolds stress model of turbulence. Fluid flow under steady state conditions indicates that the jet, from the submerged entry nozzle (SEN), is Reynolds number independent while the flow structure in the meniscus is Reynolds number dependent. These findings lead to the conclusion that there are strong self-similarity phenomena in the jet behaviour. Plots of dimensionless velocity of the jet core against dimensionless jet radius confirmed the authors' expectations. On the other hand, flow structure at the meniscus is conformed by zones with large velocity and vorticity gradients which are probably responsible for flux entrapment and generation of slivers in the slab. These simulations are helping to establish a general comprehensive theory of the turbulent flow in continuous casting moulds.

Keywords:

• MOULD
• SLAB
• TURBULENCE
• SELF-SIMILARITY
• REYNOLDS STRESSES