Lattice Boltzmann Method Modeling of Flow Structures and Level Fluctuations in a Continuous Casting Process

Transient flow and level fluctuations in the mold were simulated using the three-dimensional Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM). The LBM model was verified by measured data from the literature. The transient flow field and the free surface fluctuations in the mold were simulated. The distributions of the coherent structures were also investigated. The results showed that the behavior of the jets with oscillating characteristics on both sides of the submerged entry nozzle (SEN) played an essential role in the development of the turbulent flow in the mold. During jet diffusion, the coherent vortex ring and vortex rib structures were generated. The vortices at the narrow wall were asymmetrical in the mold, accompanied by the development, dissipation, and extinction of the coherent structures in the turbulent flow. The asymmetric flow affected the free surface fluctuations at the top of the mold. The peak and trough fluctuations on both sides of the SEN alternated thereon. The distributions of the free surface fluctuations were quantified at different casting speeds and SEN immersion depths. As the casting speed was increased, the variations and the velocities of the free surface increased; as the SEN immersion depth increased, the fluctuations and the velocities thereof decreased.