Numerical Simulation of Innovative Slag Splashing Process in a Converter Using a Nozzle-Twisted Oxygen Lance

The innovative slag splashing technology can significantly reduce CO2 emissions in the steel industry. However, conventional oxygen lances are no longer sufficient due to the gas-slag reactions involved. Hence, the feasibility of applying nozzle-twisted oxygen lances to the innovative slag splashing process was investigated in this work. Numerical simulation was employed to compare the CO2 jet, its impact characteristics on the slag, and the slag splashing performance of both the nozzle-twisted and conventional oxygen lances. It was found that the nozzle-twisted jet has higher radial and tangential velocities and a more significant impact region compared with the conventional jet. Furthermore, it exhibited superior stirring capability for the melt pool, enhancing the average velocity of the slag and reducing the size of dead zones. This facilitated the mixing of carbon powder and the interfacial reaction between CO2 and the slag. However, the slag splashing performance deteriorated after the oxygen lance was replaced. Fortunately, the slag still reached the vicinity of the slag line. Furthermore, the addition of bottom blowing compensated for the disadvantages, elevating the slag mass flow rate and further enhancing the stirring of the slag. Therefore, utilizing nozzle-twisted oxygen lances is feasible in this scenario.