3D steady state and transient simulation tools for heat transfer and solidification in continuous casting

In recent years, many mathematical heat transfer models for continuous casting have been developed. Most of the models presented in the literature can only be used for simulation of steady state casting operations in off-line mode. These models are increasingly being used for controlling the process, improving the existing cooling systems and the casting practices. For better control over the whole continuous casting cycle, more attention has recently been paid to developing real-time heat transfer models which are valid under transient casting conditions. At the Helsinki University of Technology, three-dimensional steady state (TEMPSIMU3D) and dynamic heat transfer models (DYN3D) for continuous casting have been developed. In this paper, the models are shortly presented with some validation, calibration and case examples. The thermophysical materials data are calculated using in-house models CASBOA (for copper alloys) and IDS (for steels).