Numerical modeling of coupled phenomena in a mechanically stirred molten-glass bath heated by induction

A mechanically stirred molten-glass bath heated by direct induction in a cold crucible was numerically modeled. The aim of the study was to develop numerical tools to understand thermal, hydrodynamic and electromagnetic phenomena that occur in the bath. Models and coupling between these phenomena are described. This coupling and the high content of elements in the 3D mesh result in a long calculation time. The study demonstrates how to couple programs to yield the highest degree of accuracy in the shortest calculation time possible. Numerical studies are also used to characterize the fluid dynamic behavior and heat transfer in an industrial-size tank. Classical correlations commonly used to characterize stirrer efficiency and heat transfer for fluids with constant physical properties were adapted for molten glass. The power number NpNp and the Nusselt number Nu are used as macroscopic indicators. The results of these global studies will be useful for the operation and optimization of the vitrification facilities.