Solidification control in continuous casting of steel

An integrated understanding of heat transfer during solidification, frictio n/lubrication at solid-liquid interface, high temperature properties of the solidifying shell etc. is necessary to control the continuous casting proc ess. The present paper elaborates upon the knowledge developed in the areas of initial shell formation, mode of mould oscillation, and lubrication mec hanism. The effect of these issues on the easter productivity and the quali ty of the product has been discussed. The influence of steel chemistry on s olidification dynamics, particularly with respect to mode of solidification and its consequence on strength and ductility of the solidifying shell, ha s been dealt with in detail. The application of these basic principles for casting of stainless steel slabs and processing to obtain good quality prod ucts have been covered.