Viscosity estimation model of fluorine-containing mold flux for continuous casting

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Metallurgy

Background:

• Continuous casting relies on mold flux for lubrication and heat transfer.
• Accurate viscosity prediction of mold flux is crucial for process control.
• Existing models have limitations in predicting viscosity for diverse slag compositions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel viscosity estimation model for fluorine-containing mold flux.
• To assess the model's applicability across various slag compositions.
• To compare the model's performance against established viscosity models.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Arrhenius formula and rotating cylinder method.
• Employed nonlinear regression analysis for model development.
• Generated a viscosity isogram for CaF2-Na2O-Al2O3-CaO-SiO2-MgO slag system.

Main Results:

• The developed model demonstrated high applicability for diverse slag compositions.
• Estimated viscosities showed a deviation of no more than 10% from measured values.
• The model outperformed the Riboud, Iida, and Mills models in accuracy.
• Identified a low-viscosity zone with approximately 14% CaF2 mass fraction.
• Observed significant reduction of CaF2 and Na2O due to volatilization during testing.

Conclusions:

• The developed viscosity estimation model offers superior accuracy and broader applicability.
• The model aids in optimizing mold flux composition for continuous casting.
• Volatilization of components like CaF2 and Na2O impacts actual slag viscosity.