Numerical simulation of macrosegregation in steel ingots using a two-phase model

Abstract

A two-phase model for the prediction of macrosegregation formed during solidification is presented. This model incorporates the descriptions of heat transfer, melt convection, solute transport, and solid movement on the system scale with microscopic relations for grain nucleation and growth. Then the model is used to simulate the solidification of a benchmark industrial 3.3-t steel ingot. Simulations are performed to investigate the effects of grain motion and pipe shrinkage formation on the final macrosegregation pattern. The model predictions are compared with experimental data and numerical results from literatures. It is demonstrated that the model is able to express the overall macrosegregation patterns in the ingot. Furthermore, the results show that it is essential to consider the motion of equiaxed grains and the formation of pipe shrinkage in modelling. Several issues for future model improvements are identified.