Bubble-Stirred melts in vitrification
Résumé
A numerical simulation was performed in Fluent® to optimize bubble stirring in a melting pot. The study focused mainly on optimization of the gas injection positions and sparging rates. Coalescence of bubble trains was studied in detail through a numerical analysis implementing the VOF method as well as an innovative method developed in the laboratory. This numerical study is also based on hydraulic similarity tests with a mock-up and oil bath. This article describes the numerical model of this complex phenomenon and quantifies the overall improvement in oil bath flow within the oil volume concerned.