Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation of Chromia Volatilization and Gas-Phase Evolution during Oxidation of Chromia-Forming Alloy: Cross-Linked Influence of Local Gas Velocity and Confined Geometries

Abstract

An experimentally validated and self-standing CFD (computational fluid dynamics) model was used to analyze chromia volatilization under high-velocity conditions close to industrial applications range, in wet air and pure O₂ environment at 800 and 900 ℃. A rig of complex geometry with several lined-up samples was designed. The simulations revealed the combined and non-trivial influences of gas-phase enrichment from upstream samples, local gas velocity and ratio between sample surface and corresponding free volume for gas flow. The CFD results also validated the often-used analytical approach for single sample planar geometries. For more complex situations, the CFD route is necessary.