Overview of Particles and Bubbles in Continuously Cast Steel

This paper gives an overview of phenomena associated with particles and bubbles in continuously cast steel. During steel processing from deoxidation to solidification the inclusion population undergoes changes with opportunities of removal. Flotation is an important separation mechanism. Inclusion particles may accumulate in the solidifying strand, thus forming enriched bands, which depend on the type of casting machine. Bubbles are created during inert gas injection. They also change in size, can float out, but also form accumulation bands. The interaction of bubbles and particles is discussed. Internal structure that recently has been observed on the inner surface of bubbles will be reviewed.