Numerical study of hybrid Euler–Euler multiphase modeling in bottom-purged industrial-scale steel ladle
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: In steelmaking, inert gas injection is widely employed during ladle refining to enhance mixing and promote chemical reactions. Argon is injected through the bottom of the ladle, inducing a turbulent recirculating flow that improves heat and mass transfer. This agitation promotes molten metal homogenization, inclusion removal via the slag layer, alloy mixing, and slag-metal reactions. In this study, a numerical model based on a Hybrid RANS/LES turbulence approach was developed to simulate gas–liquid flow in an industrial 185-ton steel ladle. Two injection configurations were analyzed: a central injector and one placed near the ladle wall. Model validation was carried out using experimental data from a 1:5.25 scale physical model, focusing on gas velocity magnitude and void fraction distributions. Additional results included the prediction of wall shear stress to support the assessment of flow-induced effects on refractory wear. Numerical results showed good agreement with experimental measurements, demonstrating the model’s capability to capture key flow features. The findings support the hybrid modeling strategy as a robust and computationally efficient tool for simulating multiphase flows in steelmaking, offering valuable insights into flow structures and operational impacts of gas stirring under realistic industrial conditions.
Institution: Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,290
OpenAlex ID: W7225000463