Investigation of Non-Metallic Inclusions During Vacuum Induction Melting

Vacuum induction melting (VIM) furnaces are widely used in superalloy and high-quality steel production. Although the melting and fluid flow behavior during VIM process have been studied, the evolution of non-metallic inclusions during the process has received less attention. This work used automated scanning electron microscopy to characterize samples taken from liquid steel in the VIM over two campaigns. Results showed changes to inclusion compositions during the campaign due to steel/refractory interactions. Initial evaluation was made of the kinetics of the composition changes. The result will help optimize the overall VIM operating conditions and understanding of inclusions during VIM.

Zhikai Liu | Carnegie Mellon University
 

Dr. Bryan Webler | Carnegie Mellon University