PEM further expands modeling capabilities for the special glass industries
2009-10-14
Glass quality depends largely on homogeneous temperature and chemical uniformity of the glass melt. Temperature homogenization, redistribution and chemical mixing by stirring is therefore one of the key mechanisms in the glass production process. Due to the laminar glass flow and the absence of turbulence the mechanics of stirring have been subject to multiple investigations throughout the glass industry.
Besides performing mathematical simulations our approach to further increase stirring efficiency is the introduction of physical modeling. In this respect we have installed a physical stirring model at our central Research & Development Center in Olen (Belgium) in September 2009.
The system uses a model fluid which can be adapted within a wide range in order to match the viscosities of multiple glass types at different operation temperatures. Basically any stirrer geometry available on the market can be used with the model and may be subject to optimization.
The combination between mathematical and physical simulation is a sound basis to give highest potential for the development of stirrer geometry and stirring efficiency. Making use of both simulation techniques substantially increases response time and allows accomplishment of results quickly.
Knowledge gained from the simulation process combined with the high performance properties of our dispersion strengthened FKS-material will lead to more advanced, highly functional stirring systems.