Magnesium-zirconium ceramic parts are the main components of tundishes in the steel and metallurgical industry. The tundish is primarily used in the steel metallurgical process as a key component of the continuous casting process. Its main function is to store and distribute molten steel, ensuring a continuous and stable flow from the ladle to the mold.
Main Components of a Tundish
- Tundish Body — The main structure that holds molten steel, typically consisting of a refractory lining and a steel shell.
- Lining — Includes the working layer in direct contact with molten steel and the permanent layer for thermal insulation. Commonly made from refractory bricks, castables, or spray coatings.
- Stopper Rod — A critical part for controlling the molten steel flow rate and regulating the steel level in the crystallizer.
- Submerged Entry Nozzle (SEN) — Introduces molten steel into the crystallizer while preventing oxidation and splashing.
- Sliding Gate System — Precisely controls the molten steel flow rate, consisting of upper and lower slides and a drive mechanism.
- Impact Pad — Reduces impact force during molten steel injection and prevents lining erosion.
- Weirs & Dams — Optimize the molten steel flow path and promote the flotation and separation of inclusions.
- Tundish Flux / Powder — Prevents oxidation of molten steel and helps retain heat.
Magnesium-Stabilized Zirconia (Mg-PSZ) Ceramic Parts in Tundishes
Magnesium oxide partially stabilized zirconia (Mg-PSZ) ceramics offer excellent corrosion resistance, outstanding thermal shock resistance, and stability at high temperatures, making them suitable for the following critical tundish components:
- Shroud Nozzle (SEN) — Requires resistance to molten steel erosion and thermal shock. Mg-PSZ significantly extends service life.
- Stopper Rod Tip — Directly contacts molten steel and must be resistant to high-temperature erosion. Mg-PSZ enhances corrosion resistance.
- Sliding Gate Plates — Mg-PSZ provides superior wear and thermal shock resistance against molten steel erosion and mechanical wear.
- Impact Pads — Mg-PSZ is effective in high-erosion areas, extending operational life.
Advantages of Magnesium-Stabilized Zirconia (Mg-PSZ) Ceramics
- High-temperature resistance (up to 2000 °C)
- Excellent thermal shock resistance (withstanding severe temperature fluctuations during continuous casting)
- Superior resistance to molten steel and slag erosion (superior to alumina and mullite)
These unique features make Mg-PSZ ceramics an ideal material for key refractory components in tundishes, particularly in the continuous casting of high-end steel grades.
- Tags: continuous casting materials, Magnesia-stabilized zirconia ceramics, steelmaking tundish parts, tundish refractory components
Technical Specifications / Features:
- Main material: Magnesium oxide partially stabilized zirconia (Mg-PSZ)
- Applications: Tundish components (Shroud Nozzle, Stopper Rod Tip, Sliding Gate Plates, Impact Pads)
- Properties: High-temperature resistance (up to 2000°C), excellent thermal shock resistance, superior corrosion and erosion resistance