Computational Modelling of Bubbles, Droplets and Particles in Metals Reduction and Refining

The CFD modelling of metals reduction processes particularly always seems to involve the interaction of liquid metals, a gas (often air) top space, liquid droplets in the top space and injection of both solid particles and gaseous bubbles into the bath. These phases all interact and exchange mass, momentum and energy. Often it is the extent to which these multi-phase phenomena can be effectively captured within the CFD model which determines whether or not a tool of genuine use to the target industry sector can be constructed. In this paper we discuss these issues in the context of two problems – one involving the injection of sparging gases into a steel continuous caster and the other based on the development of a novel process for aluminium electrolysis.