Mathematical Comparison of Two VOD Nozzle Jets

Abstract

Studies of physical phenomena in a jet caused by VOD (Vacuum Oxygen Decarburization) nozzles have been carried out. The VOD process is a metallurgical process where the steel-making route is controlled under vacuum environment with oxygen top blowing. In this work, two VOD nozzle models have been employed for an investigation based on two real De Laval geometries used in industry. Numerical modeling was used to study oxygen blowing states of the nozzles at different temperatures and ambient pressures. The nozzle models were numerically computed with two dimensional domains, where vacuum conditions and temperatures were specifically defined. The modeling results showed that one of the nozzles was more applicably proper for lower pressures, displaying a more stable flow pattern. Furthermore, it was found that a change in ambient pressure has a stronger effect on the jet force than a change in ambient temperature. In addition, it was proved that the profiles of the dynamic pressure at a certain blowing distance fit well to Multi-Gaussian curves.