Thermal Distortion of Funnel Molds

This paper investigates the thermal distortion of a funnel mold for continuous casting of thin slabs and explores the implications on taper and solidification of the steel shell. First, the three-dimensional mold temperatures are calculated using shell-mold heat flux and cooling water profiles that have been calibrated with plant measurements at Tata Steel IJmuiden. Next, the thermal stresses and distorted shape of the mold are calculated with a detailed finite-element model of a symmetric fourth of the entire mold and water box assembly, and are validated with plant measurements of the wear of the narrow face copper mold plates. The results of the simulations are evaluated for their influence on taper practice and water box design