Thermal flow simulation of twin-roll casting magnesium alloy

In order to better understand twin-roll casting process, a 3D finite element method (FEM) simulation was carried out, based on the conditions of the pilot vertical twin-roll caster, to study the thermal flow and solidification behavior in the twin-roll casting process. The simulation results show that non-uniform temperature and velocity distribution near the side dam region are the main reason for causing non-uniform solidification and non-uniform deformation along the cast sheet width. Therefore, it is necessary to preheat the side dams or improve the design of nozzle to compensate the effect of side dams on the casting process. High quality magnesium sheets have been cast after improved the casting devices.