Introduction
Copper mould tubes are vital for continuous steel casting. They shape molten steel and ensure high billet quality. Their internal geometry and surface treatment directly affect production efficiency and product performance.
Key Function
The main function of a copper mould tube is rapid and uniform cooling. It forms a strong billet shell while withstanding thermal and mechanical stress. Proper cooling reduces defects and improves steel quality.
Material and Design
Copper mould tubes must have high thermal conductivity and strong thermal fatigue resistance. They can be made from CuAg or CuCrZr alloys. Design options include single taper, double taper, multi-taper, and parabolic shapes. Tubes can be square, rectangular, or round to fit different continuous casting machines.
Surface Coating
Copper has low hardness, leading to wear at the lower mould area. Hard chrome plating or Ni-based coatings improve durability. Coating thickness is carefully controlled for optimal service life.
Technical Comparison Table
| Alloy Type | Softening Temp (°C) | Thermal Conductivity | Best For |
| DHP Copper | ~200°C | High | Standard Billet Casting |
| CuAg0.1 | ~300°C | Excellent | High-Speed Casting Lines |
| CuCrZr | ~500°C | High | Large Slab & Heavy Duty |
Applications
Copper mould tubes are used for billets, slabs, and beams. Sizes vary from 60x60mm to 650x650mm for billets, and round tubes from 80mm to 900mm in diameter. They are suitable for continuous casting strands 1–8.
Advantages
- Rapid and uniform billet cooling.
- High strength and thermal fatigue resistance.
- Long service life with proper coating.
- Adaptable to different casting shapes and sizes.
Troubleshooting Casting Defects: Solving Billet Cracks and Wear in Copper Mould Tubes
Problem: Longitudinal cracks in billets.
Solution: Transitioning from a single taper to a Parabolic Taper design. This adjusts for the specific shrinkage rate of the steel grade, ensuring consistent contact between the shell and the copper wall.
Problem: Rapid wear at the lower mould region.
Solution: Applying a Ni-Co (Nickel-Cobalt) coating instead of standard chrome. This offers 50% more hardness and significantly reduces the maintenance frequency.
Conclusion
High-quality copper mould tubes are essential for steel mills. They ensure superior billet quality, reduce maintenance, and improve casting efficiency. Choosing the right material, design, and coating is crucial for long-term performance.
Contact Information
For inquiries or quotes, contact us at:
Email: cykc@cykcgroup.com.cn
Website: www.cykcgroup.com.cn