High Performance Slab Casting Machines for Flexible and Reliable Production

by Paul Pennerstorfer, Gerald Hrazdera, Oliver Schulz

Publisher - Siemens VAI Metals Technologies GmbH, Linz, Austria

Category - General Novel

High casting rates with high product quality is essential for fastest plant amortizations. Siemens VAI has developed numerous technological solutions to make such features possible. A sophisticated cooling system allows full flexibility in production, ensuring stable product quality. The Siemens VAI Dynacs 3D cooling model in combination with 3D Sprays dynamic spray width adjustment allows an optimum adjustment of the water distribution over the entire strand width and avoids overcooling of the slab corners. This is performed by means of automatic positioning of the spraying nozzles with position controlled hydraulic cylinders. Another market trend is the possibility to cast higher slab thicknesses with a conventional bow type caster. Siemens VAI’s answer to this market requirement is the startup of the Shougang Qinhuangdao caster in June 2010. This is the world’s first bow type caster with straight mold producing 400 mm thick slabs. As the final solidification of the strand occurs after the straightening zone, much higher production rates can be achieved than on machines, where the solidified strand is straightened. This allows a significant cost advantage in production. The caster design follows the Connect & Cast® concept, which ensures, that all plant functions and models are in full operation from the first heat on. Thus, steep ramp-up curves are a trademark of Siemens VAI casting machines. This paper will discuss the successful implementation of Siemens VAI cutting edge technological packages, on slab casters in Asia and the benefits achieved.

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