Mathematical simulation of fluid flow in gas-stirred liquid systems

In the present paper, based on the two-phase (Eulerian-Eulerian) model, the 3D fluid flows in gas-stirred systems, i.e. air-stirred water vessel and argon-stirred liquid steel ladle, are simulated. In the Eulerian-Eulerian two-phase model, gas and liquid are considered to be two different continuous fields. The phases are assumed to share space in proportion to their volume fractions. The exchange between the phases is represented by source terms in conservation equations. Turbulence simulated by the k -ε model is assumed to be the property of the liquid phase. The effects of mathematical treatments and operational factors, such as the inter-phase drag force, the turbulent model, the size of bubble and the gas-injection mode, on the fluid flow are discussed. Some interesting results are derived. Except the inter-phase drag force, the inter-phase lift force should be taken into account in order to exactly simulate the fluid flow in gas-stirred systems. The suitable turbulent model and drag coefficient have an effect on the mathematical simulation. Injecting small bubbles can generate a well mixing flow condition. The distance between the two gas-injection nozzles has effect on the fluid flow.