Crack formation in the continuous casting of steel

This review examines the different types of internal and surface cracks that can form during the continuous casting of steel. For each crack type, the operating and metallurgical factors that are known to influence crack formation are assessed in the light of the high temperature mechanical properties of steel and a knowledge of the stresses generated in the solidifying shell. The importance of two zones of low ductility in steel is demonstrated by this approach. One zone exists above 1340°C and probably accounts for the formation of all internal cracks and surface longitudinal cracks. The other zone lies between 700 and 900°C and is related to the presence of soluble aluminum, niobium and vanadium. Transverse surface cracks in slabs can be related to the latter zone.