A Fully Coupled Analysis of Fluid Flow H

This study presents a comprehensive mathematical model for predicting potential crack formation in continuously cast round billets by examining the coupled interactions of fluid flow, heat transfer, and stress. The objective was to analyze the thermal and vectorial fields within the strand and the temperature profile of the mold using a finite difference method (FDM) that includes the turbulence and natural convection effects of molten steel. Additionally, the thermo-elasto-plastic behaviors of both the strand and the mold were assessed using a finite element method (FEM), which factors in the ferrostatic pressure due to gravity and the mechanical characteristics of the strand in varying phases. The microsegregation of solute elements in the steel was investigated to identify critical temperatures and the solid fractions present in the mushy zone. The heat transfer coefficient between the solidifying shell and the mold was calculated via iterative coupled analysis. Results indicate a good correlation between the calculated mold temperatures and heat fluxes with existing experimental observations, affirming the efficacy of the proposed model in assessing potential defects during the continuous casting process.