Optimization Of Continuosly Casting Steel By Numerical Model Of The Solidification

Abstract:

Solidification and cooling of a continuously cast steel and the heating of the mould is a very complicated problem of transient heat and mass transfer. This paper brings new findings in the field of heat and mass transfer during solidification (crystallization) and cooling. Following the thermo physical phenomena and parameters are simulated: development of latent heat of phase or structural changes, prediction of the character of primary crystallization, speed of casting and its optimization, cooling of the mould, mould oscillation, intensity of cooling in the secondary zone by means of water or water-air nozzles, prediction of the position of the latest solidification. This original 3D numerical model is capable of simulating the temperature field of a caster. The numerical computation has to take place simultaneously with the data acquisition—not only to confront it with the actual numerical model, but also to make it more accurate throughout the process. The utilisation of the numerical model of solidification and cooling plays an indispensable role in practice. This is ensured by the correct process procedure: real process > input data > numerical analysis > optimisation > correction of process. The presented model is a valuable computational tool and accurate simulator for investigating transient phenomena in caster operations, and for developing control methods, the choice of an optimum cooling strategy to meet all quality requirements, and an assessment of the heat-energy content required for direct rolling.

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