Simulation of Inclusion Particle Motion Behavior under Interfacial Tension in Continuous Casting Mold

Area of Science:

• Metallurgical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Process Engineering

Background:

• Alumina inclusions in continuous casting degrade steel properties.
• Controlling inclusion behavior is crucial for high-quality steel production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how interfacial tension, influenced by sulfur concentration, affects alumina inclusion motion.
• To analyze the impact of inclusion size, sulfur concentration, and melt temperature on inclusion behavior.

Main Methods:

• Developed a 2D numerical model in Ansys Fluent for simulation.
• Studied variations in alumina inclusion diameter, sulfur concentration, and melt temperature.

Main Results:

• Inclusion diameter significantly impacts distribution.
• Sulfur addition (10-70 ppm) increased alumina inclusion removal by 4%.
• Smaller inclusions showed a 25% higher entrapment risk at the mold's top.

Conclusions:

• Sulfur concentration is a key factor in managing alumina inclusion removal.
• Surface tension gradients influence inclusion engulfment by the solidification front.
• Optimizing sulfur levels can enhance steel quality by reducing detrimental inclusions.