Discussion of continuous casting mold flux requirements and development for thin slab casting

The first thin slab casting plant was commissioned in Crawfordsville, Indiana in 1989. Since that time, the number of thin slab casters has increased to around 20 with several more plants planned in the next few years. As world wide capacity of thin slab/hot strip approaches 40 million tons, the need for expanded markets through improved quality will become increasingly imperative. With the benefit of almost immediate quality feedback, continuous casting mold fluxes are constantly examined by steel makers as a means to improve band surface quality. This paper will discuss current understanding of mold flux requirements for thin slab casting as well as discuss challenges for mold flux suppliers as thin slab steel makers demand higher quality, greater cast speeds, and increased number of steel grade classifications.