How electromagnetic stirring influences fluid flow in continuous casting of steel

Abstract

Abstract State-of-art simulation models provide quantitative insights into flow, solidification and stress formation for continuous casting processes. This includes the entire process, from the tundish and the flow into the mold to the solidifying strand, which is withdrawn through various cooling zones. Process simulation and optimization provides important information about quality and productivity to evaluate process alternatives. This is only be possible if all relevant process parameters can be taken into account. The use of electromagnetic stirring is a technology which plays a significant role in the majority of continuous casting processes worldwide and its effects cannot be neglected in simulation models. This paper will discuss the modeling of electromagnetic stirring (EMS) and its impact on steel slab continuous casting. Two cases with and without EMS are presented. The theoretical background to calculate the Lorentz force are described. The EMS calculation described here works with traveling (linear) magnetic fields. The effect of the EMS on the flow behavior, solidification and macrosegregation is shown on an industrial-scale slab casting. This information leads to a better understanding of the EMS process in industrial applications to avoid casting defects, improve the quality of the final product, and increase the efficiency of the casting process.