Analysis of the Depth of Immersion of the Submerged Entry Nozzle on the Oscillations of the Meniscus in a Continuous Casting Mold

Abstract

In this study the effects of the depth of immersion of the Submerged Entry Nozzles (SEN) on the fluid-dynamic structure, oscillations of the free surface and opening of the slag layer, in a continuous casting mold for conventional slab of steel were analyzed. For this work, a water/oil/air system was used in a 1:1 scale model, using the techniques of Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), colorimetry and mathematical multiphase simulation. The results of the fluid dynamics by PIV agree with those obtained in the mathematical simulation, as well as with the dispersion of dye. It was observed that working with immersion depths of 100 mm or less could be detrimental to steel quality because they promote surface oscillations of a higher degree of Stokes with high elevations and asymmetry in their three dimensions. In addition, this generates an excessive opening of the oil layer which was corroborated through the quantification of the F index. On the other hand, with depths of immersion in the range of 150–200 mm, lower oscillations were obtained as well as zones of low speed near the wall of the SEN and a smaller opening of the oil layer.