Simulation of Shell Strength Properties by the SSCT Test

Initial shell formation and surface quality in continuous casting are affected by thermal and mechanical stresses which may lead to crack formation during solidification. Thus, detailed knowledge of high temperature strength properties as function of steel composition is required under given conditions. To simulate shell straining by tensile force perpendicular to the main dendrite growth axis, the "Submerged Split Chill Tensile" (SSCT) test was (and still is) further developed. The present report details updated results for ferritic and austenitic iron, and compares different chill materials. The determined effect of P-content on shell strength is quantified. Primary dendrite arm spacing without and with load appears to indicate that tensile elongation is not uniformly distributed over the test length.