Production of 180 × 180 mm continuous-cast billet from high-carbon steel

The introduction of the continuous casting of high-carbon steel into 180 × 180 mm billet is described. Measures are developed to increase the production series in the intermediate ladle from 3.5 to 10 melts. The basic factors that affect the development of microstructural defects—central porosity, as well as liquation bands and cracks extending over the cross section—are identified. The technology is corrected so as to hinder the development of such defects.