Abstract
A method of producing aluminum profile rods by the moldless upward continuous casting process using formers was investigated. Effects of the configuration of the former, the superheat of molten metal, and the upward withdrawal speed on the ratio of strand formation (the ratio of the diameter or the side of the cast strand to the nozzle diameter or the nozzle side of the former), the macrostructure, and the surface conditions of the cast strand obtained were examined.
Aluminum profile rods having various cross-sectional configurations and also longitudinal tapers could be produced by using formers made of refractory materials which determined the configuration of molten metal pillars formed on withdrawing upwardly. The former should be a “hot” one classified by Kostiegov et al. and its nozzle position should be lower than the molten metal surface by 5-10 mm. The cast strand was composed of columnar grains solidified completely unidirectionally. The ratio of cast strand formation was determined by the size of the nozzle, the superheat of the molten metal, the withdrawal speed, and the strand cooling intensity. The profile rods with no taper could be produced most easily when the ratio of strand formation was kept at around 90-95%.
