2. Pouring

2.1 Ingot casting

Ingot casting is a traditional process that is still used for special grades (high-carbon martensitic steels, high-aluminum heat-resistant steels, etc.) or when producing shapes that are incompatible with the continuous casting process (thick plates, forgings).

Ingot casting can be performed either by gravity casting or by continuous casting. Top-pouring (Figure 7 ) is the most commonly used process. It is performed through a central tube, or sprue, which directs the molten metal through pouring channels to the base of the ingot molds. Top-pouring ensures uniform filling, a good surface finish, and effective protection from the ambient atmosphere....