Multiphysics simulation of slag melting in an induction furnace for sustainable silicon production

IF 4.4 2区工程技术 Q1 ENGINEERING, MULTIDISCIPLINARY

Applied Mathematical Modelling Pub Date : 2025-03-24 DOI:10.1016/j.apm.2025.116107

A. Bermúdez , O. Crego , J.L. Ferrín , B. García , D. Gómez , I. Martínez , L.J. Pérez-Pérez , P. Salgado

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

This work presents a multiphysics mathematical modelling and numerical simulation of the slag melting process in an induction furnace, with a focus on the production of sustainable silicon through the EU SisAl Pilot project. The mathematical model incorporates electromagnetic, thermal and hydrodynamic phenomena in a coupled axisymmetric framework to simulate the melting of a CaO-SiO₂ slag, a key component in the aluminothermic reduction process for silicon production. The model addresses the challenge of heating the poorly electrically conductive slag using a graphite crucible and it also accounts for buoyancy-driven convection in the molten slag. The numerical simulations are validated against experimental data from pilot scale trials at Elkem's plant in Norway. In addition, sensitivity analyses are carried out considering both the progressive filling of the furnace and the inclusion of surface-to-surface radiation models.

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来源期刊

Applied Mathematical Modelling 数学-工程：综合

CiteScore

9.80

自引率

8.00%

发文量

508

审稿时长

43 days

期刊介绍： Applied Mathematical Modelling focuses on research related to the mathematical modelling of engineering and environmental processes, manufacturing, and industrial systems. A significant emerging area of research activity involves multiphysics processes, and contributions in this area are particularly encouraged. This influential publication covers a wide spectrum of subjects including heat transfer, fluid mechanics, CFD, and transport phenomena; solid mechanics and mechanics of metals; electromagnets and MHD; reliability modelling and system optimization; finite volume, finite element, and boundary element procedures; modelling of inventory, industrial, manufacturing and logistics systems for viable decision making; civil engineering systems and structures; mineral and energy resources; relevant software engineering issues associated with CAD and CAE; and materials and metallurgical engineering. Applied Mathematical Modelling is primarily interested in papers developing increased insights into real-world problems through novel mathematical modelling, novel applications or a combination of these. Papers employing existing numerical techniques must demonstrate sufficient novelty in the solution of practical problems. Papers on fuzzy logic in decision-making or purely financial mathematics are normally not considered. Research on fractional differential equations, bifurcation, and numerical methods needs to include practical examples. Population dynamics must solve realistic scenarios. Papers in the area of logistics and business modelling should demonstrate meaningful managerial insight. Submissions with no real-world application will not be considered.