Large eddy simulation of transient transport and entrapment of particle during slab continuous casting

To investigate the transient transport and entrapment of argon bubbles and inclusions simultaneously during continuous casting, a 3D large eddy simulation model coupling molten steel flow, solidification and particle motion was constructed. In this model, momentum transfer between molten steel and argon bubbles was performed by two-way coupling. The predicted results indicate that argon bubble injection changed the flow pattern of molten steel and the inclusion motion in the liquid pool. Consequently, the inclusion capture near the solidifying front was changed. In addition, measurements of bubbles and inclusions in the obtained samples were performed by methods of optical microscope examination and galvanostatic electrolysis. The results show a favorable agreement between the model predictions and the measured results, which validate the mathematical model. Furthermore, the predicted results of the inclusion entrapment in the case with argon bubble injection are more compatible with the measurements than those in the case without argon bubble injection.