NSF Award
9661064
*** 96-61064 Winstead This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop and experimentally validate a comprehensive computational model for electromagnetically coupled metallurgical processes. The model incorporates an efficient approach for predicting the interaction among electromagnetic, fluid dynamic, and heat transfer subsystems. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of the unified approach by developing a two-dimensional model that solves for alternating magnetic fields, turbulent fluid dynamics, conjugate heat transfer, and phase change. It will be capable of modeling processes that involve deformation and containment of free-surfaces, metal solidification, and particle transport. Phase II would extend the model to three dimensions and additional electromagnetic configurations. Commercial application of the computational model is expected in many material manufacturing processes involving electromagnetic fields. These processes include induction furnaces, electromagnetic casting, refining, stirring, shaping, pumping, and braking systems. ***
