Mesoscopic Fluid-Particle Flow and Vortex Structural Transmission in a Submerged Entry Nozzle of Continuous Caster

Understanding the essence of the flow oscillations within a submerged-entry nozzle (SEN) is essential to control flow patterns in the continuous casting mold and consequently increase the superficial quality of steel products. A numerical study of the mesoscopic fluid-particle flow in a bifurcated pool-type SEN under steady operating conditions is conducted using the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) coupled with the large eddy simulation (LES) model. The accuracy of the model has been verified by comparing vortex structures and simulated velocities with published experimental values. The LBM modeling is also verified by comparing the “stair-step” jet patterns observed in the experiment. The geometrical parameters and operational conditions of physical experiments are reproduced in the simulations. By comparing the time-averaged velocities of Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations (RANS) with LBM models, transient mesoscopic fluid-particles and related vortex structures can be better reproduced within the SEN. The visualization of internal flow within the SEN is illustrated through the mass-less Discrete Phase Model (DPM) model. The trajectories show that the LBM–LES–DPM coupled model is good at predicting the transient vortical flow within the SEN. A large vortex is found inside the exit port and continuously changes in shape and size therein. The monitoring points and lines within the SEN are selected to illustrate the velocity variations and effective viscosity, which can reflect the oscillating characteristics even under stable operating conditions without changes at the exit from the SEN. Furthermore, the formation, development, diffusion, and dissipation of the vortex structures from the exit port of the SEN are also investigated using the Q criteria. The comparison of the power spectrum with high-frequency components along the exit port indicates that the flow oscillations must originate from within the SEN and are intensified in the exit port. The mesoscopic LBM model can replicate the fluid-particle flow and vortex structure transmission as well as their turbulence effects inside the SEN in detail.