Editorial Technical Reference

Continuous Casting Mold Powder

This page explains how Continuous Casting Mold Powder is classified within Iron and Steel Basic Production. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

Continuous casting mold powder is a specialized granular flux material applied to the molten steel surface in continuous casting molds.

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

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Continuous Casting Mold Powder

Definition
Continuous casting mold powder is a specialized granular flux material applied to the molten steel surface in continuous casting molds. It serves multiple critical functions including thermal insulation to prevent premature solidification, lubrication between the solidifying steel shell and mold wall, and absorption of non-metallic inclusions from the steel. This material is essential for producing high-quality steel slabs, blooms, and billets with smooth surfaces and minimal defects. In B2B supply chains, it's supplied to steel mills as a consumable material that directly impacts casting efficiency and final product quality. The powder is formulated from a blend of oxides and carbon, with typical components including silica (SiO2), calcium oxide (CaO), alumina (Al2O3), fluorite (CaF2), and carbon. Key parameters that define its performance include the basicity index (CaO/SiO2 ratio), melting temperature, viscosity at casting temperature, carbon content, particle size distribution, alkali index, moisture content, bulk density, fluorine content, free carbon, melting rate, sintering temperature, water content, and granule size. These parameters are provided as reference ranges and must be verified for the specific grade and application. The product is used in steelmaking operations and is selected based on casting conditions such as steel grade, casting speed, and mold design. Buyers should confirm that the chosen powder meets their process requirements and any applicable standards. For verification, it is recommended to request technical datasheets and conduct trials under actual casting conditions. Maintenance signals include changes in slag behavior, surface defects on cast products, or inconsistent melting. Failure boundaries include excessive moisture to steam explosions, improper viscosity causing lubrication issues, or incorrect carbon content affecting steel quality. Always consult the supplier for model-specific values and compliance with relevant standards.
Working Principle
The powder melts upon contact with molten steel to form a liquid slag layer that insulates the steel surface, lubricates the mold-steel interface, and absorbs impurities, facilitating smooth withdrawal of solidifying steel. The carbon content controls the melting rate, while the basicity and viscosity influence the slag properties. The slag layer also provides thermal insulation to prevent premature solidification and helps in the removal of non-metallic inclusions. The granule size and bulk density affect feeding and uniform melting. Proper selection and application of the powder are critical for achieving high-quality cast products and operational efficiency.
Common Materials
Silica (SiO2), Calcium Oxide (CaO), Alumina (Al2O3), Fluorite (CaF2), Carbon
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Basicity IndexRequired0.9–1.3 ratioCaO to SiO2 mass ratio affecting slag viscosity and melting properties
Melting TemperatureRequired1050–1200 °CTemperature range at which powder transforms to liquid slag
Viscosity at 1300°CRequired0.1–0.5 Pa·sSlag viscosity at typical casting temperature
Carbon ContentRequired3–12 %Percentage of carbon controlling melting rate and insulation
Particle Size DistributionRequired0.1–1.0 meshGranular size range for uniform melting and application
Alkali Index0.2–0.5 %Na2O + K2O content affecting crystallization behavior
Moisture Content≤0.5 %High moisture causes spitting and defects.GB/T 2009
Bulk Density0.6–0.9 g/cm³Affects feeding and consumption rate.
Fluorine Content5–10 %Controls melting and lubrication; environmental limits.
Free Carbon2–6 %Affects melting rate and carbon pickup.
Melting Rate0.2–0.6 kg/minMatches casting speed for stable slag layer.
Sintering Temperature900–1100 °CAffects slag layer formation.
Water Content≤0.3 %High water leads to steam explosions.
Granule Size0.2–2.0 mmAffects flowability and melting uniformity.

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
  • Silica Base Part
    Primary network former determining slag structure and viscosity
    Material: Silica (SiO2)
  • Fluxing Agents Part
    Lower melting temperature and modify slag properties
    Material: CaO, CaF2, Na2O
  • Carbon Additive Part
    Controls melting rate and provides insulation layer
    Material: Carbon black, coke, graphite
  • Alumina Component Optional Part
    Adjusts slag viscosity and crystallization temperature
    Material: Al2O3

Industry Taxonomies & Aliases

Commonly used trade names and technical identifiers for Continuous Casting Mold Powder.

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric to 0.5 bar (mold pressure conditions)
flow rate: 0.5-2.0 kg/ton steel (powder consumption rate)
temperature: 1450-1600°C (mold operating temperature range)
layer thickness: 20-40 mm (powder bed thickness in mold)
viscosity range: 0.1-10 Pa·s at 1300°C (melted powder viscosity)
slurry concentration: Not applicable (dry granular application)
Media Compatibility
✓ Carbon steel grades ✓ Low alloy steels ✓ Peritectic steel grades
Unsuitable: High titanium or rare earth element steels (cause excessive reactivity)
Sizing Data Required
  • Casting speed (m/min)
  • Mold dimensions (width × thickness in mm)
  • Steel grade being cast

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Thermal fatigue cracking
Cause: Cyclic thermal stresses from repeated heating and cooling during casting cycles, leading to crack initiation and propagation in the mold powder layer.
Chemical degradation
Cause: Reaction with molten steel and slag, altering the powder's composition and properties, reducing its lubrication and thermal insulation effectiveness.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Visible surface cracks or spalling on the mold powder layer during inspection
  • Abnormal audible hissing or popping sounds during casting, indicating poor lubrication or thermal instability
Engineering Tips
  • Implement strict temperature control protocols to minimize thermal cycling and maintain optimal powder viscosity
  • Use advanced chemical analysis to monitor powder composition and adjust feed rates in real-time to prevent degradation

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 C1093-19: Standard Practice for Accreditation of Testing Agencies for Unit Masonry DIN 51001:2003-08: Testing of ceramic raw and basic materials - General bases

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Particle Size Distribution: +/- 5% for each sieve fraction
  • Chemical Composition: +/- 1.5% for major oxides (e.g., CaO, SiO₂, Al₂O₃)
Quality Inspection
  • X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Analysis for chemical composition verification
  • Thermal Analysis (DTA/TGA) for melting behavior and thermal stability

Manufacturers of Continuous Casting Mold Powder

1 company lists 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

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
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of continuous casting mold powder?

It provides thermal insulation, lubrication between the steel shell and mold, and absorption of non-metallic inclusions, ensuring smooth casting and high surface quality.

What are the key parameters to consider when selecting mold powder?

Key parameters include basicity index, melting temperature, viscosity, carbon content, particle size, and moisture content. These must be matched to the casting conditions and steel grade.

How should mold powder be stored and handled?

Store in a dry environment to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause spitting and defects. Follow the supplier's handling instructions to maintain product integrity.

Why is it important to verify product specifications with the supplier?

The listed parameters are reference ranges; actual values vary by grade. Verification ensures the powder meets your specific process requirements and any applicable standards.

Data Basis

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

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.
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