Performance Improvements of an In-Mold Electromagnetic Stirrer with Minimum Hardware Adjustments

During the continuous casting process of a steel mill, guided electromagnetic forces that are generated from the in-mold electromagnetic stirrer (M-EMS) systems are commonly applied to reduce the impurities of the molten metals. Due to their high installation costs and limited operational spaces, modifications on the existing M-EMS systems to improve their overall performance are restricted. Verified by detailed three-dimensional (3-D) finite element analyses (FEA) and experimental tests, this paper is aimed to provide the feasible electrical and mechanical adjustment schemes, such that the electromagnetic fields will flow through the designed paths and the desired stirring forces of the M-EMS can be apparently enhanced. From such encouraging results, it is believed that a valuable design and improvement guidance can be supplied to the related metal industries.