volume | PIER Journals

Abstract

A numerical method is developed to calculate/simulate the separation of non-metallic inclusions from an aluminum melt by using a strong magnetic field (e.g., 10 Tesla) with high gradient generated via a superconducting magnet. The cases with and without imposed DC current on liquid aluminum in a cylindrical channel are discussed and compared. The migrating velocities of the non-metallic inclusions in an aluminum melt are calculated through force analysis and Navier-Stokes equations. In addition, the trajectories and removal efficiencies of the inclusions are evaluated. It is found that particle trajectories are influenced by the imposed flow rate and inclusion particle size. In addition, the removal efficiency is improved significantly, especially for small inclusions, e.g., <10 μm, by an imposed DC current on liquid aluminum in the high gradient area of a magnetic field.

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Dr. Zhi Sun

Dr. Muxing Guo

Dr. Jef Vleugels

Dr. Omer Van der Biest

Dr. Bart Blanpain