Bringing real-time, automatic online control of mold fluid flow, newly launched ABB Ability™ Optimold Control connects sensors and actuators in the continuous casting process.

The ABB Ability™ Optimold Control system works in real-time, using feedback from a high-resolution sensor system (such as ABB Optimold Monitor) to actively control electromagnetic devices such as stirrers or brakes which can influence fluid flow, correcting casting problems in the mold and ensuring that casting takes place under optimal conditions.   

Combining seamlessly with ABB’s existing product suite for steel manufacturers, ABB Ability™ Optimold Control adds instant and optimal process control in the mold, resulting in higher product quality, improved productivity and enhanced efficiency in the slab casting process while helping avoid costly quality downgrades.   

ABB has also developed a product version specifically for use with a new type of electromagnetic brake (EMBR) in the conventional or thin slab continuous steel casting process. ABB Ability™ Optimold  Control for EMBR independently controls the new EMBR’s flexible left and right sides and takes advantage of its flexible front core configuration, which enables it to work with any submerged entry nozzle (SEN) shape. The resulting real-time, online control optimizes melt flow speed, symmetry and stability control.     

“Previously, we have offered electromagnetic device control systems that rely solely on macroscopic casting parameters such as casting speed and slab format,” says Anders Lehmann, Vice President of ABB Metallurgy Products. “Our new ABB Ability™ Optimold Control elevates such systems to a closed-loop, using sensors that quickly identify and correct variations in the casting process that may be otherwise be missed, such as  meniscus fluctuations, biased flow due to clogging, irregular flow patterns or improper meniscus flow speeds.”   

“With this real-time, online control system, the continuous casting process becomes more robust, dangerous events can be avoided and both product quality and energy efficiency are improved.”

For further info visit https://new.abb.com/metals/abb-in-metals/offering/products/metallurgy-products/electromagnetic-stirrers-and-brakes-for-steel/electromagnetic-devices-for-slab-casting

ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a pioneering technology leader with a comprehensive offering for digital industries. With a history of innovation spanning more than 130 years, ABB is today a leader in digital industries with four customer-focused, globally leading businesses: Electrification, Industrial Automation, Motion, and Robotics & Discrete Automation, supported by its common ABB Ability™ digital platform. ABB’s market leading Power Grids business will be divested to Hitachi in 2020. ABB operates in more than 100 countries with about 147,000 employees. www.abb.comv

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