Application of computational fluid dynamics for solving ventilation problems in metallurgical industrial processes

This paper focuses on the application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling to solve challenging ventilation problems during metallurgical industrial process events. Three application case studies are presented, including a local fume capture hood modelling study to verify the design modifications, a canopy hood study to identify the ventilation improvement solution and a study for troubleshooting and design modification of a large furnace building ventilation system. These case studies involved various heat and fume sources, complicated geometry and the interaction of natural buoyancy and mechanical exhaust. The studies suggested that site measurement and video analysis are important in obtaining realistic and representative model boundary conditions. The selection of transient or steady-state simulations should be based on the actual operating modes and the associated fume transport physics. The results of these studies demonstrate that CFD can be used to effectively verify the ventilation design alternatives, troubleshoot the operating problems and achieve cost-effective design solutions.