Analysis of the Process of Solidification of Steel Ingots in Molds.

Numerous published experimental data are analyzed and generalized. It is concluded that different height levels of steel ingots in a mold solidify at different times. The ratio between ingot volume and its heat emission surface is a complex index reflecting the effect of the distance from the section considered to the bottom base of the ingot, its correlation of sides and tapes, on solidification kinetics. Vertical solidification cannot be considered separately from the horizontal one because it is its particular case. Horizontal solidification does not obey the square root law. Its rate is maximal at the initial moment of solidification. It then drops rapidly and at delta approximately equals 0. 6 ( delta equals xi /R, where xi - thickness of the crust, R - radius (half of thickness) of ingot) it has a minimal value. Further solidification takes place with acceleration towards the center of the ingot.