Physical modeling of a dual-electrode-pair, joule heated glass melter

Conference · Mon Jul 01 00:00:00 EDT 1985

OSTI ID:5352885

Skarda, J R; Reid, C R

The purpose of this study was to evaluate various dual-electrode-pair (DEP) melter configurations which feature independently power controlled upper and lower electrode pairs. The effects of upper to lower electrode spacing and electrode power ratio on the molten glass temperature and electric field were examined using a laboratory scale model. These influences are of interest because large temperature gradients in the molten glass promote the undesirable tendency for crystallization and particle settling. Furthermore, nonuniform electrical conductivity could lead to electrode crossfiring and excess electrode wear. Similarity parameters were obtained from nondimensionalization and simplification of the governing differential equations and boundary conditions. The five dimensionless groups requiring similarity were: Pe, BETA..delta..T, Ga Pr, Nu, and phi/sub s/. Scaling factors were then derived to determine model fluid properties and model operating conditions that correspond to the desired prototype operating conditions. A model fluid was prepared that simultaneously scaled the glass kinematic viscosity and electrical resistivity at the glass operating temperature. Results indicate that prolonged operation of the melter at the limiting upper to lower electrode power ratios (U/L EPR's) of 1:0 and 0:1 is undesirable due to large temperature stratification and severe crossfiring, respectively. Smaller temperature variations, and crossfiring effects suggest that an U/L EPR of 1:1 may be a suitable operating configuration. A smaller electrode spacing resulted in larger ''near electrode'' temperature and electrical potential gradients.

• Research Organization: Pacific Northwest Labs., Richland, WA (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: AC06-76RL01830
• OSTI ID: 5352885
• Report Number(s): PNL-SA-13304; CONF-8509165-1; ON: DE85018217
• Resource Relation: Conference: International symposium on refined flow modeling and turbulence measurements, Iowa City, IA, USA, 16 Sep 1985
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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