Two Numerical Models for Prediction of an Industrial Concasting Process

This paper introduces the application of two three-dimensional (3D) numerical models of the temperature field of a caster. The first model simulates the temperature field of a caster—either as a whole, or any of its parts. Experimental research and data acquisition take place simultaneously with the numerical computation in order to enhance the numerical model and to perfect it in the course of the process. In order to apply the second original numerical model—a model of dendritic segregation of elements—it is necessary to analyze the heterogeneity of samples of the constituent elements and impurities in characteristic places of the solidifying slab. The samples are taken from places, which provide information on the distribution of elements under both standard and extreme conditions for solidification, where the mean solidification (crystallization) rate is known for points between the solidus and liquidus curves. Using this method, it is possible to forecast the occurrence of the critical points of a slab from the viewpoint of its susceptibility to crack and fissure. Verification of the technological impact of optimization, resulting from both models, is conducted on a real industrial caster.