[Study on the diffusion of hydrogen fluoride in an electrolytic fluoride plant based on CFD numerical simulation...

Area of Science:

• Industrial Hygiene
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Hydrogen fluoride (HF) exposure poses significant occupational health risks in electrolytic fluorine plants.
• Effective management requires understanding HF gas distribution and diffusion patterns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To utilize Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for analyzing HF distribution and diffusion in an industrial setting.
• To provide a scientific basis for occupational health management and safety measures in fluorine plants.

Main Methods:

• Numerical simulation using Fluent software to model HF gas diffusion.
• Establishment of plant models and computational grids for accurate simulation.
• Analysis conducted under specific ventilation conditions.

Main Results:

• Simulations indicated an average workplace HF concentration of 0.045 mg/m³.
• HF concentration at 1.5m in the inspection channel was 0.02 mg/m³, meeting national standards.
• Identified localized eddy currents above electrolyzers near inlets, potentially causing HF accumulation.

Conclusions:

• CFD numerical simulation is a viable tool for assessing HF concentration distribution and diffusion.
• The findings support enhanced occupational hazard prevention, control, and management strategies in fluorine plants.