Recent research published in ‘Teshugang’, which translates to ‘Steel News’, sheds light on the intricate flow and solidification behaviors of medium manganese (Mn) steel during the continuous casting process. This study, spearheaded by a team from the School of Materials and Metallurgy at the University of Science and Technology Liaoning and the General Steelmaking Plant of Angang Steel Company Limited, offers valuable insights that could significantly impact the steel industry and, by extension, the construction sector.
The researchers conducted a numerical simulation to analyze the behavior of molten medium Mn steel in a thin slab continuous casting mold measuring 1500 mm by 90 mm. Their findings revealed critical fluctuations in temperature, particularly around a quarter of the width of the lower layer at a casting speed of 5 m/min and an immersion depth of 300 mm. “The temperature discrepancies can lead to challenges in achieving uniform solidification,” noted Tian Runyu, one of the lead authors. This is particularly important as uneven solidification can affect the mechanical properties of the steel, which are crucial for construction applications.
One of the most striking outcomes of the study was the observation of the solidified shell’s thickness at the mold outlet, which measured only 7.73 mm. This thin shell presents a potential risk for structural integrity, especially in construction scenarios where durability is paramount. The research also highlighted the formation of a slag rim that was smaller in size and primarily composed of the initial slag layer. The interaction between the initial layer and the reaction layer at different stages of solidification was pivotal in forming a solid slag film, which plays a significant role in the casting quality.
As the construction industry increasingly demands high-performance materials, understanding the solidification characteristics of medium Mn steel could lead to advancements in steel production techniques. “By optimizing the casting process, we can enhance the quality and reliability of steel used in construction, which ultimately leads to safer and more durable structures,” added Song Bingjun, another lead author involved in the study.
The implications of this research are profound, suggesting that improved control over the casting process could yield higher-quality steel products that meet the stringent requirements of modern construction projects. As the industry moves toward more sustainable and efficient practices, the insights provided by this study could serve as a foundation for future innovations in steel manufacturing.
This important research underscores the intersection of metallurgy and construction, paving the way for advancements that could reshape the landscape of the building sector. For more information on the research team, visit lead_author_affiliation.
