MODELING OF THE GRAIN STRUCTURE FORMATION IN THE STEEL CONTINUOUS INGOT BY CAFE METHOD

Computer modeling of a temperature field and a solid phase fraction in casted billets is the base of any numerical simulation of the continuous casting technology. Temperature distribution in an ingot longitudinal and cross section for the same technological parameters is a function of solidification rate and rate of the solidification heat release. Nucleation rate and solid grain growth velocity depend on a melt undercooling below the liquidus temperature, and consequently depend on a temperature value. The results of the primary grain growth and temperature distribution modeling are presented for the square steel continuous casting 160x160 mm produced by CELSA Steel Works in Ostrowiec. For the modeling the ProCAST (R) software was used. Virtual structure of primary grains in the continuous ingot cross section was compared with a structure of a real ingot.