A boundary element method to predict the shape of a molten metal free surface in EM confinement field

An iterative procedure to predict the equilibrium shape of a molten-metal free surface in an electromagnetic confinement field is developed. An impedance boundary condition (IBC) formulation forms the computational core of the procedure, in which a balance of electromagnetic and gravitational pressures is sought. The method is used to predict the shape of the molten-metal free surface in a crucible induction furnace. The formulation is described, and results showing the very close agreement with measured free surface contours are presented. The effects of supply frequency, mass density, and free level within the furnace and considered.<>