Abstract
A three-dimensional transient heat transfer model has been developed to simulate the solidification process of strand in a continuous casting. The temperature distribution of a typical beam blank from the meniscus to the unbending point was investigated by the numerical simulation method, which is justified by the in situ test data. Based on the temperature distribution of the beam blank, improvement on the layout of spray nozzles and water consumption in the secondary cooling zone is proposed. When the improved cooling scheme was employed, the temperature of the beam blank in the secondary cooling zone was controlled in a suitable range determined by the metallurgical criteria, and the transverse surface temperature on a cross-section of the strand became more uniform, which was assessed by the standard deviation of temperature. Moreover, the macrostructure defects are greatly decreased and the quality of the beam blank product is enhanced.
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