Study of cleanliness and castability in Ti-stabilized ultra low carbon steels using automated SEM inclusion analysis

Titanium-stabilized ultra-low carbon steels are often used in surfacequality critical applications and also susceptible to clogging problems in the casting process. The Automated Steel Cleanliness Analysis Tool (ASCATTM), based on computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy, was used to quantify the content and compositions of inclusions present in the steel. The effects of alloy addition timing at the RH degasser and of tundish slag composition on cleanliness in these grades are discussed.