Research on Parameter Optimization for Cr Yield Under Atmospheric Induction Melting Process of Copper Mould Tube Material for Continuous Casting Machine

Cu-Cr alloys are widely used to extend the life of the copper mould tube for continuous casting machine (CCM) because of good wear and heat resistance. Current study is focused on the improvement of Cr yield under the atmospheric induction melting rather than vacuum melting of Cu-Cr alloys. The melting temperature was determined on the thermodynamic analysis of Cr redox process and metallic Cr rather than Cu-Cr intermediate alloy was used for alloying. The optimum conditions are melting temperature 1350℃, lump size 30 mm and holding period 30-35 min, witha chromium yield of 90%. At high temperatures, water vapor dissociates into oxygen and hydrogen, which increasesoxide inclusion and gas porosity. Since carbon from a graphite crucible reacts with Cr, it is preferable to use a zirconia or magnesia crucibles. It is considered positive to add magnesium to the copper-chromium alloy because magnesium is highly deoxidation-resistant and can improve the physical and mechanical properties of the alloy.