Introduction of the VAI compact caster for increased capacity and flexibility in slab production

Abstract

An increase in the continuous-casting capacity of a steel mill requires either the upgrading of existing machines or an investment in a new caster. However, space restrictions may prevent the installation of a new caster within an existing steel mill. The VAI compact caster introduced in this paper is designed to enable steel producers increase their casting output and production flexibility with the installation of a highly compact caster within the restricted space of an existing steel mill. With this solution, two independently cast and controlled small-width slabs or a single wide-width slab can be cast with the same equipment.