Influence of Spacers and Skid Sizes on Heat Treatment of Large Forgings within an Industrial Electric Furnace

The influence of stacking patterns, through the different spacer and skid sizes, on transient temperature distribution uniformity large-size forgings in a 112-m3 electrical heat treatment furnace was investigated by conducting CFD simulations real-scale experimental validation. A 3D model generated, including heat-treating chamber, axial flow fans, large size blocks, skids, spacers. Real-scale measurements instrumented test blocks during process were carried out to validate simulations. Results indicated that capable enough determine evolution with maximum average deviation about 6.62% compared measurements. It found significant non-uniformities up 379 K surfaces due non-optimum pattern experienced blocks. Such could be reduced between 24% 32% if well-adapted sizes used configurations. Based simulation results validation work, optimum for uniform proposed patterns.