The Steam Quality result shows the fraction of saturated steam that coexists with its condensate during a rapid mold heating and cooling simulation using a Transient Cool analysis. This result is available for both Dual Domain and 3D analyses.
Using this result
The Steam Quality result is best used in conjunction with the data in the analysis log. The analysis log indicates when the program transitions to the next step and thereby helps you understand what is happening when looking at the Steam Quality result. Steam Quality is calculated by dividing the mass of steam by the total mass of steam and condensate. The magnitude of the result reflects how much of the steam is in the vapour form and how much has condensed to the liquid form; the higher the value, the more vapour there is.
With the rapid heating and cooling cycle, the secondary air purge coincides with the mold open time. Following the secondary air purge, the steam heating begins with the pumping of steam into the circuits. At this time the Steam Quality is at its highest value, but immediately starts to fall as the steam condenses. Following steam heating, the residual condensed steam that remains in the circuits is removed with a primary air purge. Coolant then enters the circuits for the start of the cooling phase, and the cycle repeats itself.
The Steam Quality result shows no response during the air purges or while coolant is flowing in the circuit. You can determine when the heating part of the cycle will start by looking at the timings in the analysis log.
() to animate the result, and see how the Steam Quality result changes over the duration of the cycle. Things to look for
When viewing the Steam Quality result, watch for the following.
- The initial Steam Quality value is sufficiently high to heat up the mold, and does not drop off too quickly.