Electromagnetic Devices for Continuous S

Electromagnetic (EM) devices such as electromagnetic stirrer (EMS) and brake (EMBR) are extensively being used in the steel industry across various processes in furnaces, ladles, and casters. The application of EM devices in tundish is not well known despite the fact that tundish offers huge potential to improve steel cleanliness and overall melt quality, due to the availability of large surface area, before the melt is solidified in the mold. This article focuses on developing EMS and EMBR for tundishes by quantifying their benefits in the process. For slab casting, a “T” shape two-strand tundish is considered, and for billet casting, a “V” shape six-strand tundish is analyzed. Simulations of various combinations of EMS and EMBR configurations are carried out for both two and six-strand tundish to obtain better fluid flow characteristics, melt thermal homogenization, and steel cleanliness. EM devices significantly enhance inclusion separation rates, especially for smaller inclusions. EMS with tundish heater helps maintain the required uniform outlet temperature over time and across various strands in multi-strand tundishes. The effect of EMBR at inlets, outlets, and as tundish furniture requires further investigation to confirm their benefits in terms of avoiding vortexing and splashing while encouraging inclusion floatation.