GRK2802: Characterization of Thermophysical Properties and Crystallization Behavior of Industrial Mold Fluxes

Abstract

This study explores the thermophysical properties and crystallization behavior of two in-dustrial Mold Fluxes (MF1 and MF2) used in continuous steel casting. Viscosity, density, and surface tension were measured using the Rotating Bob Viscometry (RBV) and the Maximum Bubble Pressure (MBP) method, while crystallization dynamics were assessed via the Single Hot Thermocouple Technique (SHTT). Both fluxes showed tempera-ture-dependent viscosity with distinct break temperatures influenced by chemical compo-sition. MF1 had higher viscosity and activation energy (127.72 kJ mol−1) than MF2 (112.11 kJ mol−1) due to its higher Al2O3 content. Density and surface tension decreased linearly from 1523 to 1623 K, with values of 2642–2618 kg m−3 and 299–291 mN m−1 for MF1, and 2708–2656 kg m−3 and 348–305 mN m−1 for MF2. Crystallization analysis showed that MF1 required higher cooling rates (critical cooling rates: 21 K s−1 vs. 18 K s−1 for MF2) for glass formation, highlighting its greater glass-former content.