Zirconia Sizing Nozzle For Continuous Casting
Zirconia sizing nozzles for continuous casting feature high density and excellent erosion resistance, slow bore expansion, and thermal shock resistance, with a service life 2–3 times longer than that of standard nozzles.
Products Description
Our Zirconia Sizing Nozzle is made of high-purity partially stabilized zirconia (PSZ). Unlike traditional aluminum-carbon or zirconia-carbon products, it does not rely on the brittle structure of a "carbon bond," but instead leverages the phase-transition toughening mechanism inherent to zirconia itself. Under prolonged exposure to molten steel, the rate of internal diameter expansion is extremely slow, and its actual service life is 2–3 times that of standard nozzles. For foundries seeking to extend the service life of their ladle nozzles, this is a proven cost-saving solution.
Why Choose Our Zirconia Sizing Nozzle?
Low bore expansion rate
Utilizing isostatic pressing and high-temperature sintering processes, the material achieves a bulk density of 5.4–5.6 g/cm³ and an apparent porosity of <1%. This means that the turbulence in the molten steel is unable to disrupt the internal structure of the nozzle. For continuous casting of low-carbon and alloy steels, single-ladle casting durations can reach 20–30 hours (depending on the cross-section and pulling speed). The expansion of the nozzle's inner diameter is controlled within an extremely narrow range, ensuring a stable steel flow and a steady liquid surface.
Resistance to Thermal Shock
Thermal shock during the start of pouring, ladle changeovers, and even rod insertion is the primary cause of nozzle cracking. Zirconia's high thermal expansion coefficient compatibility and microcrack toughening mechanism enable it to withstand repeated thermal shocks. Even if there are brief interruptions during casting or the molten steel cools, the nozzle will not develop through-cracks.
Resistance to Slag Erosion
In the case of calcium-treated steel or high-oxygen steel, conventional materials are prone to chemical erosion, leading to spalling (material loss) on the inner walls of the nozzle and contamination of the molten steel, resulting in inclusions. Zirconia is highly chemically inert and reacts minimally with steel slag, effectively preserving the purity of the molten steel. It is particularly suitable for the development of specialty steels.
Technical Parameter Table
| Item | Typical Value | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Main Composition (ZrO₂+HfO₂) | ≥ 94.5% | GB/T 4984 |
| Bulk Density | 5.40 - 5.60 g/cm³ | GB/T 2997 |
| Apparent Porosity | ≤ 1.0% | GB/T 2997 |
| Cold Crushing Strength | ≥ 500 MPa | GB/T 5072 |
| Thermal Shock Stability (1100℃ - Water Quenching) | > 10 cycles | Internal high-frequency verification |
| Applicable Steel Grades | Plain Carbon Steel, Cold Heading Steel, HRB400, Pipeline Steel, Stainless Steel | - |
| Common Inner Diameter Sizes | Φ13.0mm / Φ14.5mm / Φ15.5mm / Φ16.5mm / Φ20.0mm | Custom non-standard sizes available |
Selection and Compatibility (For Purchasing/Engineers)
We offer two interface types that are fully compatible with mainstream continuous casting machines both domestically and internationally:
Sleeve Type: Suitable for most standard ladles; used in conjunction with a base brick for easy replacement.
Insert Type: Suitable for quick-change mechanisms; used with a quick-change device for fixed-diameter nozzles to enable nozzle replacement without stopping the machine.
Our Service Commitment
- Ready to Use: No special baking required-simply load it into the machine (if preheating is needed, we can provide recommended temperature profiles).
- Failure Analysis: If you encounter abnormal spout life at your facility, we can provide a failure analysis report to help determine whether the issue stems from molten steel deoxidation, pulling speed, or erosion. We do not shirk responsibility; our sole focus is on solving problems.
- Small-Batch Prototyping: Looking to evaluate our products? We offer free samples.
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