How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Submerged Entry Nozzle and Save Costs

Submerged Entry Nozzles (SENs) are essential components in steelmaking that transport molten steel from the ladle to the tundish in continuous casting processes. The success of your steel production process depends on the quality and lifespan of your SEN. A well-maintained SEN can save you significant costs in downtime, replacement, and maintenance fees.

Here is the content：

1. What is a Submerged Entry Nozzle?

2. How to properly maintain your SEN

3. Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Submerged Entry Nozzles

4. Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Submerged Entry Nozzle

What is a Submerged Entry Nozzle?

A submerged entry nozzle (SEN) is an essential component in steel production, which allows molten metal to flow from the ladle into the tundish. The SEN needs to withstand high temperatures, thermal shock, and chemical corrosion during the process. Proper maintenance of this critical component can help extend its lifespan, improve overall steel quality, and ultimately save costs.

How to Properly Maintain Your SEN

Choose the Right Material

Selecting the right material for the SEN is a crucial factor that affects its lifespan. ZrO2-c slag line Corrosion resistance and Non-carbon liner are popular materials that offer excellent resistance to thermal shock and chemical corrosion. These materials provide better durability and prevent cracking, spalling, or premature failure of the SEN.

Regular Inspection

Regular inspections and monitoring of the SEN's condition can help detect any signs of wear and tear early on. Checking the inner channel of the nozzle is particularly important, as it can become blocked with slag or other debris, leading to reduced flow rates and pressure drops. Inspections should be performed at least once every two weeks to ensure optimal performance.

Clean with Care

Cleaning the SEN requires special attention to avoid causing damage to the lining. Using improper cleaning tools or abrasive substances can lead to scratching or gouging the interior surface, causing not only damage but also the potential for slag buildup. A soft brush or sponge, combined with a suitable cleaning solution, is usually sufficient.

Avoid Thermal Shock

Rapid temperature changes can cause thermal shock, leading to cracks or even failure of the SEN. To prevent this problem, it is recommended to gradually heat up the SEN before use and carefully control the pouring temperature. Additionally, it's important to avoid sudden cooling, as it can cause thermal stress and reduce the lifespan of the SEN.

Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Submerged Entry Nozzles

There are several factors that can impact the lifespan of an SEN, including:

ZrO2-c Slag Line Corrosion Resistance: The slag line is the area where the SEN is most vulnerable to corrosion. The presence of ZrO2-c in the SEN material can enhance its resistance to slag line corrosion and extend its lifespan.

Non-Carbon Liner: Carbon-containing materials can react with molten steel at high temperatures, causing erosion and reducing the lifespan of the SEN. Using non-carbon liners can prevent this issue and increase the SEN's longevity.

Thermal Shock Stability: The SEN is exposed to extreme thermal stresses during the steelmaking process, which can cause cracking and failure. SENs with high thermal shock stability can withstand these stresses and have a longer lifespan.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Submerged Entry Nozzle

Use ZrO2-c Slag Line Corrosion Resistance Materials: The most common cause of SEN failure is slag line corrosion. Using refractory materials with high ZrO2 content in the slag line area of the SEN can significantly improve its resistance to corrosion. This type of material has excellent thermal stability and chemical resistance to alkalis and acids, making it ideal for use in harsh environments.

Consider Non-Carbon Lining: Carbon-based lining materials are commonly used in SENs due to their excellent thermal conductivity properties. However, they are also prone to oxidation and erosion, leading to reduced lifespan. Non-carbon lining materials, such as alumina-based or zirconia-based ceramics, offer superior corrosion resistance and higher durability, resulting in extended life spans.

Optimize Pouring Parameters: The temperature and flow rate of molten metal can affect the lifespan of your SEN. Overheating can cause thermal shock and cracking, while low pouring temperatures can lead to an uneven flow and clogging. Maintaining optimal pouring parameters can ensure a stable and consistent flow of molten metal, reducing the risk of damage to the SEN.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance are critical to ensuring the longevity of your SEN. Visual inspections can help identify early signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, erosion or blockages. Regular cleaning and repairing of the SEN can prevent further damage and increase lifespan.

To sum up, extending the lifespan of your submerged entry nozzle is an effective way to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency in steelmaking. As a trusted steel manufacturer, GH Steel Corp is committed to providing top-quality products and services to our clients worldwide. Contact us today to learn more about our steel solutions and how we can help you optimize your steel production process. You can also browse our website www.ghsteelcorp.com.