The Advantages of Using Copper Mould Tubes in Continuous Casting

Continuous casting is a widely-used process in the steel industry, and the quality of the finished product depends highly on the components used in the process. Copper mould tubes are one such component that plays a crucial role in achieving high-quality steel products. In this article, we will explore the advantages of using copper mould tubes in continuous casting.

Here is the content：

1. What are Copper Mould Tubes?

2. What are the Advantages of Using Copper Mould Tubes in Continuous Casting?

3. How do copper mould tubes work?

4. Types of copper mould tubes

5. Why are copper mould tubes better than other materials?

What are Copper Mould Tubes?

Copper mould tubes are critical components used in continuous casting to shape liquid steel into semi-finished products. They are made from high-quality copper alloys such as CuAg, Cu-DHP, and Cu-Cr-Zr. The tubes come in different taper designs, and their sizes depend on the slab width and thickness of the desired product.

What are the Advantages of Using Copper Mould Tubes in Continuous Casting?

Long Service Life

One of the most significant advantages of using copper mould tubes is their long service life. Copper has excellent thermal conductivity properties that allow for uniform heat distribution across the mould surface. Additionally, copper mould tubes have high resistance to corrosion and erosion, which means they can withstand harsh operating environments without suffering damage. When properly maintained, copper mould tubes can last for several thousand casting cycles before requiring replacement.

Multiple Coating/Multilayer

Another advantage of using copper mould tubes is the ability to apply multiple coatings or multilayers on them. NiCoCr is a common coating applied to copper mould tubes to improve their wear resistance and reduce oxidation. The coating also provides a smooth surface finish, which reduces the likelihood of cracks or other defects on the cast product. Applying multiple coatings or multilayers further improves the performance of copper mould tubes, making them last longer and produce higher-quality steel products.

CuAg, Cu-DHP, Cu-Cr-Zr

Copper mould tubes are available in different copper alloy compositions, each with unique properties that suit different casting requirements. CuAg has high thermal conductivity and is resistant to corrosion, making it suitable for use in high-speed casting operations. Cu-DHP has excellent capillary action, which helps maintain a constant slag level during casting. Cu-Cr-Zr has high wear resistance and is ideal for use in continuous casting of high-alloyed steels.

How do copper mould tubes work?

Copper mould tubes are inserted into the bottom of the caster's mold, where they help to shape the liquid metal as it solidifies. The tubes act as a heat sink, absorbing the heat from the molten metal and allowing it to cool and solidify into the desired shape. The different taper designs of these tubes help to control the flow and thickness of the metal as it moves through the casting process.

Types of copper mould tubes

There are several types of copper mould tubes available, each with its unique features and benefits. NiCoCr copper mould tubes are a popular choice because they have a long service life and can withstand high temperatures. They are also resistant to wear and corrosion and can easily be repaired or replaced.

Multiple coating/multilayer copper mould tubes are another option that offers superior performance and durability. These tubes have multiple layers of coatings, such as CuAg and Cu-DHP, which provide an extra layer of protection against wear and corrosion. They are ideal for use in applications where the casting process is particularly demanding or where the tubes are subjected to harsh conditions.

Cu-Cr-Zr copper mould tubes are yet another type of copper mould tube that is highly regarded for its strength and durability. These tubes are made from a combination of copper, chromium, and zirconium, which makes them incredibly resistant to wear and corrosion. They are also easy to repair and maintain, making them a cost-effective choice for many casting applications.

Why are copper mould tubes better than other materials?

Copper mould tubes have several advantages over other materials such as cast iron and steel. Firstly, they have a higher thermal conductivity which allows for quicker cooling of the molten steel. This results in a more even solidification and formation of a finer grain structure, improving the mechanical properties of the final product. Secondly, copper mould tubes have a lower coefficient of friction, which reduces the risk of surface defects during casting.

Additionally, copper mould tubes can withstand higher temperatures compared to other materials, making them suitable for use with high-speed casting machines. They are also less prone to cracking and deformation, leading to a longer service life and reduced maintenance costs. Finally, copper mould tubes are less reactive with molten steel, reducing the likelihood of chemical reactions that can degrade the quality of the final product.

In summary, copper mould tubes are a vital component of the continuous casting process in the steel industry. As outlined in this article, these tubes offer numerous advantages over other materials, including superior thermal conductivity and longer lifespan. To learn more about copper mould tubes and their benefits, visit the website of GH Steel Corporation at www.ghsteelcorp.com. With years of experience in the steel industry, GH Steel Corp is a trusted supplier of high-quality copper mould tubes and other products for customers worldwide. Contact them today to see how they can help improve your steel production process.