Using Numerical Simulations to Determine the Effect of External Fluid Flow on Heat Transfer Rates in Heat Treating Operations

摘要

Numerical simulations have seen increased use in the heat treating industry over the last several years. Most of the work in this area has focused on predictions within the metal specimen, with the surface heat transfer rate specified a priori. In reality, the external flow conditions can have a significant effect on the surface heat transfer rates. An overview of the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) as applied to heat treating operations and the prediction of heat transfer rates is provided along with examples for several materials processing operations. CFD can be an effective tool for the development of new processes and the improvement of existing processes for increased quality, uniformity, and energy efficiency.