Preliminary assessment of CFD models suitable for simulation of processes in tunnel kilns.

This paper intends to provide an initial background for the selection and calibration of the CFD model suitable for the simulation of firing process of ceramic bricks in tunnel kilns. Therefore, the most suitable model is selected based on previous literature review and its capability is demonstrated using a reduced-scale virtual experiment. Such experiment was designed to simulate conditions in the tunnel kilns and to provide data for further analysis. First, a simple spatial configuration of bluff bodies in the wind tunnel is investigated using laminar and turbulent model to validate and confirm the presumed flow regime. With this validation, the same CFD model is extended by the heat balance equation and the heat exchange dynamics between air and solid bodies for the same configuration is analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]