Flow Dynamics in Thin Slab Molds Driven by Sustainable Oscillating Jets from the Feeding SEN

Abstract

Sustainable oscillations of discharging jets from a two-port SEN in a thin slab caster were studied using various experimental water-modeling techniques and mathematical simulations via a combination of Reynolds Stress Model and Volume of Fluid Model to follow interface dynamics of liquid phase. A dynamic distortion of low frequency was observed on fluid flow. This distortion enhances the permanent oscillations of discharging jets and finally produces large gradients of Reynolds stresses at their boundaries with the surrounding flow. Thus high strain stresses derive into large gradients of dissipation rates of kinetic energy through the jets giving place to large and small eddies which transport energy to the free bath surface and refine the flow structure located below the tip of the SEN, respectively. As a final result non-symmetric flows with high meniscus instability are produced independently of casting speed and mold size. These results are a bottom line reference to design future SEN's for thin slab casters with improved performances.