Numerical modelling and analysis of flow and heat transfer processes in a coke oven

In this paper, we present the study of heat transfer processes and fluid dynamics in a coke oven using the finite element method. The heat transfer processes are represented by a non-linear transient energy balance equation whilst the flow of gas in the coke oven is described by Darcy's law and the continuity equation. A slightly perturbed continuity equation is employed in order to satisfy the Ladyzhenskaya-Babuska-Brezzi stability criterion. C° continuous biquadratic 9-noded elements have been used in conjunction with mixed formulation. Streamline upwinding technique has been applied to the heat balance equation in order to stabilise the solution. Gas viscosity, thermal conductivity of coal and refractory bricks, specific heat of coal and permeability of the coke oven bed are all dependent on temperature. Appropriate models for these temperature dependent parameters have been incorporated within the main solution algorithm. It is shown that an Euler time stepping scheme for the Darcy equation along with an implicit-theta time stepping scheme for energy balance equation offers a robust and accurate technique for the solution of governing equations of the described problem. Simulated results arc then compared with published experimental data for model validation. © 2005 EUROSIS-ETI.