MACROSCOPIC INVESTIGATIONS OF THE PRIMARY STRUCTURE OF CONTINUOUS CASTING INGOTS

This paper presents the results of macroscopic investigations of the structure of continuous casting ingots depending on the kinetics of solidification and speed of casting of low carbon steel intended for welding wires. We have determined the Lk length of solidification path of ingots of 140 x 140 mm cross-section. We have also performed macroscopic investigations of the ingot structures together with identification of shrinkage porosity defects and axial porosities. microscopic investigations of axial ingot zones, areas of shrinkage defects and axial porosity, have demonstrated that the non-metallic phase (silicates and aluminates) presented there stands in the way of welding during the process of rolling of continuously cast ingots.