Combined Effects of EMBr and SEMS on Melt Flow and Solidification in a Thin Slab Continuous Caster

Electromagnetic fields have emerged as powerful tools for addressing current problems in thin slab continuous casting processes in the iron and steel industry. Substantial studies have been undertaken on the fundamental effects of electromagnetic brakes (EMBr) and strand electromagnetic stirring (SEMS). However, little attention has been focused on melt flow and solidification in a thin slab continuous caster with the simultaneous application of an EMBr and SEMS. The present study aimed to predict transient fields in the caster using a large eddy simulation and an enthalpy-porosity method. The electric potential method was applied in the braking process, and the conductivity change with solidification was considered. The suppressive effect on the intensity of the nozzle jet, the balance effect on the mold flow, and a dispersion effect could be observed. The dispersion effect was a novel finding and was beneficial to a flatter nozzle jet. In contrast, SEMS caused a highly turbulent flow in the strand. A large vortex could be observed in the casting direction. The solidified shell became more uniform, and the solidification rate became obviously slower. These findings supported the view that a high-quality thin slab can be produced by the application of an EMBr and SEMS.