Editorial Technical Reference

Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN)

This page explains how Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN) is classified within Basic Metal Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

A refractory component that directs molten steel from the tundish into the mold while submerged below the metal surface.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN)

Definition
The Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN) is a critical refractory component in continuous casting systems that connects the tundish to the mold. It serves as a conduit for molten steel, directing the flow from the tundish into the mold while being submerged below the metal surface to prevent oxidation, minimize turbulence, and control the flow pattern within the mold. The SEN is typically manufactured from alumina-graphite, zirconia-graphite, or fused silica refractory materials, each offering distinct properties for thermal shock resistance and corrosion resistance. Key parameters include nominal bore size (50–150 mm), overall length (500–1200 mm), wall thickness (10–25 mm), bore diameter (30–80 mm), port angle (15–45°), number of ports (2–4), thermal conductivity (2–5 W/(m·K)), refractoriness under load (1500–1700 °C), apparent porosity (15–25%), bulk density (1.8–2.2 g/cm³), cold crushing strength (30–60 MPa), thermal shock resistance (10–20 cycles), and weight (10–50 kg). These values are typical ranges for reference; actual specifications must be confirmed with the manufacturer for specific applications. The SEN's design and material selection are critical for ensuring uniform solidification, minimizing surface defects, and extending service life. Proper installation and maintenance are essential to prevent premature failure. Always verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.
Working Principle
The SEN operates by creating a submerged, controlled flow of molten steel from the tundish into the mold. Its submerged position prevents air entrapment and oxidation of the steel. The nozzle's internal geometry and port design (typically side ports or bottom ports) control the flow velocity, direction, and pattern within the mold, promoting uniform solidification and minimizing surface defects in the cast product. The refractory material must withstand high temperatures and thermal shock while maintaining structural integrity. The port angle and number of ports influence the flow distribution, affecting the quality of the final product. Proper preheating and handling are necessary to avoid thermal shock damage.
Common Materials
Alumina-graphite refractory, Zirconia-graphite refractory, Fused silica refractory
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Nominal Bore Size50–150 mmMatches tundish and mold connectionsISO 1127
Overall Length500–1200 mmDetermines immersion depth
Wall Thickness10–25 mmAffects thermal shock resistance
Bore Diameter30–80 mmControls flow rate
Port Angle15–45 °Affects flow pattern in mold
Number of Ports2–4Determines flow distribution
Thermal Conductivity2–5 W/(m·K)Lower reduces heat lossISO 8894-1
Refractoriness Under Load1500–1700 °CMust exceed steel temperatureISO 1893
Apparent Porosity15–25 %Affects thermal shock and corrosionISO 5017
Bulk Density1.8–2.2 g/cm³Indicates material qualityISO 5017
Cold Crushing Strength30–60 MPaResists mechanical stressISO 10059-1
Thermal Shock Resistance10–20 cyclesHigher cycles mean longer lifeISO 2478
Weight10–50 kgAffects handling and installation

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Flange Part
    Connects the SEN to the tundish outlet and provides sealing
    Material: Refractory material with steel reinforcement
  • Body/Tube Part
    Main conduit that carries molten steel from tundish to mold
    Material: Alumina-graphite or zirconia-graphite refractory
  • Ports/Outlets Part
    Discharge openings that direct molten steel flow into the mold with controlled pattern
    Material: Wear-resistant refractory material

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN).

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric to 0.5 bar (primarily hydrostatic pressure from tundish height)
flow rate: 1-6 tons/min (typical continuous casting throughput)
temperature: 1500-1600°C (typical steel casting range)
slurry concentration: Not applicable (handles pure molten steel, not slurries)
Media Compatibility
✓ Molten carbon steel ✓ Molten stainless steel ✓ Molten low-alloy steel
Unsuitable: Molten aluminum or copper alloys (different thermal/chemical properties)
Sizing Data Required
  • Required steel throughput (tons/hour)
  • Mold dimensions (width/thickness)
  • Tundish nozzle bore diameter

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Thermal fatigue cracking
Cause: Cyclic thermal stresses from rapid temperature changes during casting sequences, leading to crack initiation and propagation in the refractory material.
Clogging and alumina buildup
Cause: Accumulation of deoxidization products (primarily alumina) inside the nozzle bore due to turbulent flow and chemical reactions with molten steel, restricting flow and altering stream characteristics.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Visible cracks or spalling on the SEN exterior surface during visual inspection
  • Abnormal steel flow patterns or splashing during casting, audible as irregular pouring sounds
Engineering Tips
  • Implement controlled preheating protocols to minimize thermal shock during SEN installation and startup, maintaining temperature gradients within refractory limits
  • Optimize argon gas injection parameters (flow rate, distribution) to create protective gas films that reduce alumina adhesion and improve flow dynamics

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ASTM A297/A297M - Standard Specification for Steel Castings, Iron-Chromium and Iron-Chromium-Nickel, Heat Resistant, for General Application EN 10204:2004 - Metallic products - Types of inspection documents

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Bore diameter: +/-0.05mm
  • Surface flatness: 0.1mm per 100mm length
Quality Inspection
  • Dye Penetrant Testing (DPT) for surface defects
  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT) for internal integrity

Manufacturers of Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN)

5 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

China Firebrick
Henan, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Long Keter
Shandong, CN
Founded 2012
ISO9001 ISO 14001 ISO 45001
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Shandong Zichuan Special Refractory
Shandong, CN
Founded 1992100,000 square meters
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
ZT Materials
Liaoning, CN
Founded 2009
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Wanhao Refractory
Beijing, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
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Inspection readiness
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a Submerged Entry Nozzle?

The SEN directs molten steel from the tundish into the mold while submerged, preventing oxidation and controlling flow to ensure uniform solidification.

What materials are commonly used for SENs?

Common materials include alumina-graphite, zirconia-graphite, and fused silica refractories, each offering different thermal and corrosion properties.

How does the port design affect casting?

Port angle and number of ports influence flow velocity and pattern in the mold, impacting solidification and surface quality.

Why is it important to verify specifications?

Actual dimensions and performance values vary by application; confirming with the manufacturer ensures proper fit and operation.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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