Finite-Element Analysis of Melt Flow in a Vertical Twin-Roll Casting

Abstract

Twin-roll casting is an efficient and economical process to fabricate metal sheets since it combines solidification and rolling in one process. However, this process requires a careful control because several phenomena, such as heat transfer, solidification, fluid flow and solid deformation, occur simultaneously. In the present study, a rigid-thermo-viscoplastic finite-element analysis was utilized to understand these complex phenomena occurring in a vertical twin-roll casting of an aluminum alloy. As a result several interesting findings were obtained including the development of two symmetrically identical vortexes at the roll entrance.