Numerical study of melt flow under the influence of heater-generating magnetic field during directional solidification of silicon ingots

The alternating current (AC) in the resistance heater for generating heating power can induce a magnetic field in the silicon melt during directional solidification (DS) of silicon ingots. We numerically study the influence of such a heater-generating magnetic field on the silicon melt flow and temperature distribution in an industrial DS process. 3D simulations are carried out to calculate the Lorentz force distribution as well as the melt flow and heat transfer in the entire DS furnace. The pattern and intensity of silicon melt flow as well as the temperature distribution are compared for cases with and without Lorentz force. The results show that the Lorentz force induced by the heater-generating magnetic field is mainly distributed near the top and side surfaces of the silicon melt. The melt flow and temperature distribution, especially those in the upper part of the silicon region, can be influenced significantly by the magnetic field.