Longitudinal cracks on the surface of continuous casting slabs are a critical quality issue that can lead to defects in rolled products, production delays, and even costly scrap. These cracks originate from uneven solidification of the initial shell in the mould, often exacerbated by operational and material factors.
To combat this challenge, investing in a high-performance copper mould tube is essential. Our premium copper mould tubes are engineered to enhance thermal conductivity, reduce heat stress, and ensure uniform solidification—minimizing the risk of longitudinal cracks and improving casting efficiency.
Causes of Longitudinal Cracks in Continuous Casting
Misaligned Nozzle & Mould Flow Issues
If the submerged entry nozzle (SEN) is misaligned, it creates biased flow, unevenly scouring the solidifying shell and weakening its structure.
Solution: Our precision-designed copper mould tubes ensure optimal alignment compatibility, promoting balanced molten steel flow.
Poor Mold Slag Performance
Inconsistent slag layer thickness (too thick or too thin) leads to uneven heat transfer, causing weak spots in the shell.
Solution: Our mould tubes work seamlessly with high-quality fluxes, maintaining a stable liquid slag layer (10mm+).
Excessive Mold Level Fluctuation
Fluctuations >10mm increase crack probability by 30%.
Solution: Our thermally stable copper mould tubes help stabilize meniscus heat flow, reducing level variations.
High Sulfur & Phosphorus Content
S > 0.02% and P > 0.017% reduce steel’s high-temperature strength, increasing crack susceptibility.
Solution: Our mould tubes provide superior thermal management, compensating for steel composition challenges.
Carbon Content in Sensitive Range (0.12-0.17%)
This range increases crack tendency due to peritectic reactions.
Solution: Our optimized copper mould tubes ensure uniform cooling, mitigating peritectic-related defects.
How Our Copper Mould Tube Prevents Longitudinal Cracks
Superior Thermal Conductivity
Ensures even heat extraction, reducing shell thickness variations.
Precision Taper Design
Minimizes air gaps between shell and mould, preventing stress concentrations.
Hot Top Mould Technology
Features low-conductivity inserts (e.g., stainless steel) at the meniscus, reducing heat flow by 50-70%, delaying shell shrinkage, and preventing cracks.
Compatibility with Advanced Mold Powder
Promotes stable slag film formation for uniform lubrication and heat transfer.
Robust Construction for Longevity
High-grade copper with chromium or nickel plating resists wear, maintaining performance over extended campaigns.
Conclusion
Longitudinal cracks in continuous casting can be costly, but with the right copper mould tube, these defects are significantly reduced. Our high-performance mould tubes deliver:
- Uniform solidification.
- Reduced thermal stress.
- Extended service life.
- Compatibility with optimal casting practices.
Upgrade your continuous casting process today—choose reliability, choose quality, choose our copper mould tubes!
Contact us now for a tailored solution to your casting challenges!
E-mail： cykc@cykcgroup.com.cn