Simulation analysis of the effect of rotating drum speed on the heating rate and temperature uniformity of methyl silicone oil

This research employs numerical simulation techniques to investigate the operational characteristics of a rotating cylinder-type metal recovery device utilizing methyl silicone oil as the heat transfer medium. The primary focus is on exploring the influence mechanisms of the rotating cylinder's rotational speed on the heating rate and temperature uniformity during the melting process of low-melting-point metals. Results show that increasing the rotating cylinder's rotational speed from 0 rpm to 30 rpm leads to a 27.7% increase in the average heating rate and a 2.2% improvement in the temperature uniformity index. This demonstrates that higher rotational speeds can effectively enhance convective heat transfer efficiency and optimize the uniformity of thermal field distribution. Experimental validation reveals a positive correlation between rotational speed and heating rate, although the heating rate tends to decelerate when the rotational speed approaches 25 rpm. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for optimizing thermal parameter design in metal recovery equipment. Notably, they offer innovative solutions for improving energy efficiency in rotating equipment operating under conditions of inadequate or uneven heating, holding significant engineering guidance value for achieving green metallurgy and resource recycling objectives.