Analysis of solute distribution during the solidification of low alloyed steels

Abstract

A numerical model that estimates the interdendritic segregation during the solidification of multicomponent low alloyed steels is presented. Some special features related to the solidification of these steels, like peritectic reaction, dendrite arm coarsening and inclusion precipitation, are taken into account by the model. Model results were extensively compared with experimental data published in the literature. In general, a good agreement between calculated and measured results was verified. Furthermore, the model was used to investigate the effect of steel composition on cracking tendency. Results showed that an increment of phosphorus and carbon content extends the solidification time in the vulnerable period, which may increase the risk of internal defects. Additionally, a peak contraction is observed for steels with carbon content around 0.10 %, which is in agreement with the lower mould heat transfer and higher surface defect index observed for these steels in plant data.