Simulation of steel scrap movement

The steel scrap movement was simulated with a SIMPLE-VOF code and its simulated results were discussed. The movement of scrap in an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) influenced the furnace heat efficiency, as the scrap pile was much closer to the electric arcs compared to the furnace wall and roof, and absorbed more radiated heat. The driving force of scrap flow was estimated, and approximated by the combination of an equivalent gravity force and viscosity. The experimental observations indicate that average acceleration of the pile is less than 5% of the gravitational acceleration.