Numerical modelling of gas stirred ladles

A finite element analysis of the flow in a gas stirred vessel is presented. Turbulence is modelled using the two equation k-L predictor/epsilon corrector scheme algorithm; two alternative studies are compared, with and without flotation in k and epsilon transport equations. The biphasic zone is considered as an homogeneous fluid with a reduced density-the quasi-single phase approach. This reduced density is estimated taking into account the slip velocity between the rising bubbles and the liquid according to correlations from the literature. The numerical results are compared with experimental water model data and then used to predict the flow in two industrial liquid steel ladles with twin eccentric Ar injectors.