A new method of continuous casting of copper billets by a combination of AC current and magnetic fields

A new method (AC + EMCC) was developed by directly applying alternative current (50 Hz) to the melt in the mold through the launder during electromagnetic continuous casting (EMCC) of copper billets. Effects of inputting AC current intensity on the solidification structure, tensile strength and surface quality of the billets were systematically investigated and discussed. An obvious improvement of surface quality and physical properties can be obtained with the combination of the AC current under optimized conditions of 360 A. The solidification structures are refined and homogeneously distributed due to the enhancement of electromagnetic forces. The mechanisms of grain refinement and interaction of AC current with the melt were analyzed.