《China Foundry》
Title:Volume-averaged modeling of multiphase solidification with equiaxed crystal sedimentation in a steel ingot
Author:Xiao-lei Zhu1, 2, 3, Shuang Cao2, Rui Guan1, 3, **Ji Yang2, *Zhe Ning1, 3, Xin-gang Ai1, 3, Sheng-li Li1, 3, and Xin-cheng Miao3
Address: 1. The key Laboratory of Material Forming and Structure Property Control, Anshan 114051, Liaoning, China; 2. State Key Laboratory of Metal Material for Marine Equipment and Application, Anshan 114009, Liaoning, China; 3. School of Materials and Metallurgy, University of Science and Technology Liaoning, Anshan 114051, Liaoning, China
Key words:ingot casting; multiphase solidification model; equiaxed crystal sedimentation; microstructure; macrosegregation
CLC Nmuber:TG142.11/TP391.9
Document Code:A
Article ID:1672-6421(2024)03-229-10
Abstract:
Macrosegregation is a critical factor that limits the mechanical properties of materials. The impact of equiaxed crystal sedimentation on macrosegregation has been extensively studied, as it plays a significant role in determining the distribution of alloying elements and impurities within a material. To improve macrosegregation in steel connecting shafts, a multiphase solidification model that couples melt flow, heat transfer, microstructure evolution, and solute transport was established based on the volume-averaged Eulerian-Eulerian approach. In this model, the effects of liquid phase, equiaxed crystals, columnar dendrites, and columnar-to-equiaxed transition (CET) during solidification and evolution of microstructure can be considered simultaneously. The sedimentation of equiaxed crystals contributes to negative macrosegregation, where regions between columnar dendrites and equiaxed crystals undergo significant A-type positive macrosegregation due to the CET. Additionally, noticeable positive macrosegregation occurs in the area of final solidification in the ingot. The improvement in macrosegregation is beneficial for enhancing the mechanical properties of connecting shafts. To mitigate the thermal convection of molten steel resulting from excessive superheating, reducing the superheating during casting without employing external fields or altering the design of the ingot mold is indeed an effective approach to control macrosegregation.