Mathematical Modelling of Heat Transfer and Solidification during continuous Casting of Steel

Abstract

A continuous casting process setup is shown in Fig.1.The figure clearly shows the different cooling regions during continuous casting of steel. Molten steel at liquidus temperature is poured in the ladle which carries it to the tundish. The tundish holds the molten steel for an intermediate amount of time and ensures a continuous, uniform supply to the mold. In general molds are made of copper and are water cooled. The most critical function of the mold is to extract heat from the molten steel which in turn is taken away by the continuous supply of cold water, known as primary cooling. The liquid steel solidifies inside the mold cavity while it is continuously withdrawn downwards at the casting speed. Below the mold cooling is performed by water sprays, by contact with water cooled support rolls, & in the lower part of machine by radiation called secondary cooling zone.