Outlet Port Design of Swirling Flow Subm

In continuous casting processes, controlling the flow pattern in the mold is crucial for ensuring the quality of the steel products. This study presents a novel technology for swirling flow formation in submerged entry nozzles, aimed at improving flow characteristics during steel casting. A collaborative effort initiated in 1997 involving the Nippon Institute of Technology, Osaka University, Kyushu Refractories, and Sumitomo Metal Industries led to the development of a submerged entry nozzle equipped with a swirling blade. Comprehensive full-scale water model experiments were conducted to analyze the effects of outlet port design on flow dynamics. The findings indicate that the optimal design of the outlet port, characterized by narrow width, significantly enhances swirling flow within the nozzle. This tailored design minimizes flow stagnation in the mold, thereby improving both productivity and surface quality of cast slabs and coils. The results substantiate the potential benefits in steel manufacturing processes through the innovative design of submerged entry nozzles that facilitate controlled swirling flow patterns. The study contributes valuable insights into the optimization of continuous casting methodologies for improved steel quality.