Work

Numerical model of aluminothermic reduction vessel preheating and charge heating with graphite heating rods

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Background: The present work is conducted in the framework of the SisAl Pilot EU project, which aims to optimize silicon production in Europe by recycling materials and using carbon-emission-friendly technology. Silicon production experiments were conducted on laboratory and pilot scales in different types of furnaces, including reduction vessels used as chemical reactors for molten slag-metal mixtures. In addition to experimental work, process optimization also relies on numerical modelling. Methods: In this study, COMSOL Multiphysics® was used for numerical testing of new thermal and electrical designs of a reduction vessel by simulating its preheating and charge heating with three graphite heating rods powered by a three-phase alternating current transformer. A one-heating-rod design is also tested. Results and conclusions: The model predicts that available electrical equipment is sufficient for preheating the empty reduction vessel up to 1600°C in less than 4 h. Owing to the model, the geometry of the heating rod was optimized to maintain its temperature below 2500°C. However, it was found that a modification of the electrical equipment would be required to heat the vessel charge with the heating rods submerged into it.

Source: Open Research Europe

DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.18586.1

Authors: Sergey Semenov, Patrick Namy, Aditya Kale, Sello Tsebe

Institution: Mintek

Language: English

Topic: Metallurgical Processes and Thermodynamics

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $841