Numerical Analysis of Gas Flow-Slag Surface Interaction in Blast Furnace

Abstract

An improved understanding of gas flow distribution around the raceway of an ironmaking blast furnace is important for stable operation and improved drainage of molten liquids from the hearth. Previous studies based on 2- and 3-dimensional models with over-simplified raceway phenomena do not provide a quantitative description of liquid-gas interaction. The current paper focuses on the analysis of gas flow near the raceway region and its effect on the liquid surface by using a 3-dimensional sector model. Various BF phenomena and a realistic local coke bed structure, such as the raceway cavity and “birds nest”, are considered. The simulation is conducted using a homogeneous two-phase flow model combined with a model for flow through porous media. The variables considered include the liquid level, location and shape of the cohesive zone and deadman characteristics.