Role of Solidification in Submerged Entr

The continuous casting process of steel often encounters issues related to the clogging of the submerged entry nozzle (SEN), which can compromise steel quality and disrupt operations. This study aims to investigate the solidification phenomena that potentially contribute to clogging within the SEN during continuous casting. Acknowledging the complexities of the interaction between molten steel and refractory materials, this research seeks to elucidate the role solidification plays amidst various proposed mechanisms of clogging, such as the deposition of nonmetallic inclusions and thermochemical reactions. A transient clogging model was developed and utilized to analyze the processes occurring within the SEN under functional conditions. The findings indicate that while solidification does play a role in clogging, it occurs in conjunction with other factors, such as migration and entrapment of solidified steel within the porous structure of the clog. The results underscore the necessity for further exploration into concurrent clogging mechanisms and the design of SENs that mitigate such risks effectively. This research offers valuable insights that can lead to enhanced operational efficiency in steel casting through optimized control of clogging dynamics.