Abstract
The bulging behavior of the solidified shell in continuously cast slabs have been numerically analyzed using the elasto-plastic and creep Finite Element Method. Three-dimensional model has been applied in order to investigate the effect of the narrow face shell on restraining the bulging deflection. Three-dimensional shell profile and temperature distribution in it have been determined using a mathematical model of solidification which takes account of solute segregation. In this way, strains occurring at the solidification front near the narrow face of the slab, as well as those occurring in the broad face have been computed. The computed bulging deflection have been in good agreement with measurements, and the relationship between the strain caused by the bulging and the internal cracks have been investigated. In addition, the effect of the slab width on the bulging are discussed.
