The charge/discharge capabilities of Li-ion cathodes are influenced by the meso-scale geometry, transport properties, and morphological parameters of the constituent phases in the cathode: active material, binder, conductive additive, and pore. Electrode processing influences the structure and attendant properties of these constituents. Thus, performance of the battery can be enhanced by correlating various electrode processing techniques with the charge/discharge behavior in the lithium-ion cathodes. X-ray microtomography was used to image samples obtained from pristine Li(Ni 1/3 Mn 1/3 Co 1/3 )O 2 (NMC) cathodes subjected to distinct processing approaches. Two sample preparation approaches were applied to the samples prior to microtomography. Casting the samples in epoxy yielded only the cathode active material domain. Encapsulating the sample with Kapton tape yielded phase contrast data that permitted segmentation of the active material and combined carbon/binder and pore regions. Geometrical and morphological details of the active material and the secondary phases were characterized and compared between the varied processing approaches. Calendered and ball-milled samples exhibited distinct differences in both geometry and morphology. Drying modes demonstrated variation in the distribution of the secondary and pore phases. Applying phase contrast capabilities, the processing−morphology relationship can be better understood to enhance overall battery performance across multiple scales.
Cleanliness of steel is a primary requirement for flat products. It is obtained with minimum of defects by controlling the liquid flow characteristics in the mould and fluctuations over the meniscus surface. Liquid flow in the mould region is due to the momentum of the pouring stream which in turn is related to the clogging of submerged entry nozzle and argon flow in the mould. This makes control of liquid steel flow dynamics in the mould important. The mould level fluctuation index, flow fraction or clogging percentage and optimised gas flow models have been developed and are correlated for minimised surface fluctuations throughout the casting sequence. Tundish weight, casting speed, casting section and immersion depth of the nozzle which primarily change the flow profile inside the mould are the key operational variables considered for model calculations. The operational parameters were adjusted to follow the developed models criteria for different casting conditions. Online application of these operational control models contributed to stabilise the mould fluid flow and have helped in decision making for pumping, flushing and tube changing. The present paper describes the mathematical approach adopted in calculation of optimum casting parameters for controlling flow of liquid steel, nozzle clogging and gas injection rate at JSW Steel Ltd. This has resulted in considerable reduction in mould level fluctuations and production of superior quality slabs even at higher casting speeds.
With increased usage of steel for critical applications, the demand for cleaner steel has increased. Existing technologies have been improved and new technologies are being introduced all along the process route to minimise the size and quantity of inclusions. In continuous casting, the function of tundish has changed from its early role as a liquid steel buffer to a multifunctional vessel, dominating quality adjustments, specifically inclusion flotation. To meet stringent cleanliness requirements, a methodology of forced flotation of inclusions by controlled bubbling of inert gas in tundish was developed and investigated. Location of the bubbling arrangement was optimised using the flow profile generated by water modelling experiments. Optimum gas flowrates were calculated mathematically and further adjusted with a series of experiments. Extensive plant scale trials were used to optimise the process parameters and bring the technology to practice. There was a 33-70% reduction in inclusions of size greater than 50 mm and a 13-36% reduction in inclusions 25-50 mm. Inclusion removal reduced at higher casting speeds. Under steady state conditions, efficiency of inclusion flotation was found to be a function of casting speed. Additionally, a significant reduction in oxide build-up and nozzle clogging was observed thus lengthening refractory life.
Mold flux entrapment during continuous casting of steel contributes to both surface and sub-surface defects in the final product. Continuous casting operating parameters such as casting speed, SEN immersion depth, SEN port geometry, argon flow, and mold EMS significantly affect the mold flow conditions and flow profile. During continuous casting operation, SEN immersion depth is continuously varied to avoid localized erosion of SEN, and it impacts the flow dynamics in the mold. In the present work, water modeling studies were carried out for a wide range of mold widths (1200-1800 mm) and casting speeds (0.8-1.4 m/min) on a 0.5 scaled down water model to optimize casting speed for different combinations of SEN immersion depth and mold width. Results from water modeling were further validated using nail board studies in the actual plant. A safe operating matrix was identified from these experiments to avoid mold slag entrapment during continuous casting.
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