In this study, an experimental investigation has been carried out for analysis of influence of molten steel flow on homogenization of initial solidification continuously cast slabs. By applying EMS to produce medium carbon steel, it is confirmed that EMS remarkably improves the uniformity of solidification shell thickness over the width of slabs. In the present study, experimental investigation and 3-D magnetohydrodynamic calculation have been carried out for analysis of the influence of molten steel flow on temperature in mold, distribution of solute in slab, heat flux to mold plate, and frequency of nucleus formation. The following results are obtained.
(1) A steady level of initial solidification uniformity is possible to be maintained by providing steady molten steel flow along the solidification front of continuously cast slabs.
(2) According to 3-D magnetohydrodynamics calculation taking into consideration of heat transfer and solidification, electromagnetic stirring technique is useful for improvement of initial solidification uniformity.
In the large-scale application to the commercial production, EMS contributes to reduce surface defects originating from longitudinal cracks.
