Vortex Core Phenomenon in Continuous Casting Mold

The vortex core phenomenon, such as a bathtub vortex, is observed in draining processes or in the molds used for continuous casting; and it causes slag entrainment, which leads to serious defects in steel products. In this study, we numerically investigated the vortex core phenomenon by using a full-scale water model of a continuous casting mold. The numerical model successfully captured the air entrainment caused by the vortex core accompanying a large deformation in the mold; its results showed a qualitatively and quantitatively good agreement with the experimental results. Furthermore, we also suggested the mechanical method to suppress the vortex core phenomenon by adding the splitter plates at both sides of the submerged entry nozzle (SEN); it was successfully prevented the vortex core phenomenon near the SEN by suppressing the interaction of vortices caused by the Karman vortex phenomenon.