Flow Dynamics and Electromagnetic Effects in Continuous Casting of Steel

B.G. Thomas, Kevin Cukierski, R. Chaudhary

Continuous Casting Consortium

Computational models of transient, multiphase fluid flow are being developed, validated, and applied to improve understanding of transient flow, inclusion transport and defect formation in the mold region during the continuous casting of steel slabs.  The important effect of electromagnetic forces to slow down and control the flow pattern are being incorporated.  Process parameters, such as nozzle geometry and gas injection rate, which are easy to change and yet profoundly influence both flow and product quality, are being optimized.  Models to compute the transport and entrapment of inclusion particles are being tested through water model experiments, steel plant trials, and metallographic measurements at several steel companies who are cosponsoring this research.