Variations in chemical composition of some steels during continuous casting

In this study, chemical composition variations of some steels during continuous casting were investigated in Eregli Iron and Steel Works Co. (ERDEMIR), Turkey. Final chemical analysis of a heat is determined in the continuous casting stage. Three steel specimens are regularly taken from the mould at certain meters of slab strand for each heat. The aim of this work was to evaluate the extent of changes in chemical analysis along the slab strand. Consequently, the leading aim of this study was to determine whether the number of specimens taken for each heat could be decreased without compromising quality control of the continuous casting. This was accomplished for some low-carbon, ultra-low carbon, and structural steels, which constitute the majority part of the ERDEMIR product range. The results revealed that the number of specimens could only be decreased for a limited number of steels and under certain circumstances.