Segmented Casting Nozzle for Steel Strip Width Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing casting nozzles for steel strip casting face challenges in achieving widths greater than 300 mm due to static strength limitations of refractory materials and high thermal expansions, leading to increased production costs and operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A multi-part casting nozzle design where the hollow block is divided in the casting direction with narrow sealing elements and step-like shoulders to manage thermal expansion, allowing for modular adjustments and improved static strength while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the casting nozzle is made as a single hollow block to ensure structural integrity, then static strength is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases and thermal expansion control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The casting nozzle is divided into multiple segments (first segment, second segment, third segment) along the casting direction. Each segment can be manufactured separately at lower cost and assembled together. The segments are connected via support ribs that allow for thermal expansion while maintaining structural integrity, thus resolving the contradiction between strength and manufacturability.
2Device complexity
If the casting nozzle is made as a single hollow block, then structural simplicity is maintained, but thermal expansion control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is segmented into multiple sections connected by support ribs. These ribs allow controlled movement and expansion of each segment independently in response to thermal changes, preventing unwanted alterations to the clear cross-section while maintaining overall structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The design accommodates thermal expansion by allowing dimensional changes in the support ribs and joint areas. The gaps at separation points are specifically designed to close during operation due to thermal expansion, transforming the harmful expansion into a beneficial sealing mechanism.
3Productivity
If the casting nozzle width is increased to >300 mm to produce wider steel strips, then productivity improves, but static strength of the ceiling element deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ceiling element is divided into multiple segments supported by vertical columns and interconnected by support ribs. This segmentation allows the structure to span greater widths while maintaining local structural integrity, as each segment is supported independently rather than relying on a single continuous beam.
Solution Approach 2:
The support ribs extend in the transverse direction to connect ceiling segments, creating a three-dimensional support framework. This adds structural stability in the width direction without requiring increased material thickness or single-element strength.
4Ease of manufacture
If the casting nozzle is divided into multiple segments, then manufacturing cost decreases and thermal expansion control improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into a limited number of segments (first, second, and third segments) connected by support ribs. This segmentation enables modular manufacturing and assembly while keeping the overall structure relatively simple. The support ribs serve multiple functions: structural support, thermal expansion accommodation, and flow guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The support ribs perform multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural support between segments, accommodate thermal expansion through controlled flexibility, and guide the steel flow between segments. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, offsetting the complexity increase from segmentation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the production of steel strips with widths greater than 300 mm by controlling deflection and thermal expansion, reducing production costs and ensuring stable operation through a modular, cost-effective design.
Implementation Method 1
the gaps remaining in the separation point area are selected in their width so that they close when the casting nozzle is operated
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a casting nozzle for a horizontal continuous casting system, especially for casting steel strip. Said casting nozzle is connected to a feed channel and is designed as a rectangular refractory hollow ingot the outlet region of which is only slightly above the cooled continuous strip which accommodates the emanating melt. The hollow ingot is subdivided at least once in the direction of casting and a narrow sealing element is arranged on the division side of the segments, the width of the remaining gaps in the division area being chosen such that they are closed when the casting nozzle is operated.