Analysis of Surface Behavior and Cavity Oscillations in a Liquid Metal Model Experiment of the Basic Oxygen Furnace Process

Abstract

Herein, the behavior of a free molten metal surface is investigated during the impact of a high‐velocity gas jet in a model experiment simulating a basic oxygen furnace. Both water and the alloy GaInSn serve as model melts. In the experiments, the parameters, nozzle height (hn), and the blowing number (NB) are varied. The behavior of the free surface of the melt, particularly the cavity induced by the impacting gas jet, is recorded in a time‐resolved manner using optical, noninvasive methods. The results of the observations with water align well with corresponding findings from other authors. The comparison of observations for water and GaInSn surfaces reveals that the free surfaces of the two model melts behave similarly. Furthermore, it is observed that the surfaces are agitated by a fast off‐centered rotation of the cavity. A theoretical explanation of this rotation is provided.