Finite element analysis of continuous steel casting

In order to analyse the behaviour of steel during continuous casting and to improve the process, two complementary models of steel continuous casting using the finite element code LAGAMINE have been developed. We propose here a description of both macroscopic and mesoscopic approaches. The first one describes the whole continuous casting process, from the free surface in the mould and through the entire machine, including thermal and mechanical behaviour of the steel. The second approach focuses on the prediction of cracks and is developed at the grain scale. Results concerning the optimisation of the mould taper and the analysis of transverse cracks initiation are presented as industrial applications.