Laser-based continuous monitoring and resolution of steel grades in sequence casting machines (LACOMORE) : final report

This document reports on the activities developed during the project, and contains a description of the work packages and the main results achieved. Laboratory characterization of steel samples was completed in line with the tasks scheduled in WP1. In WP2, the LIBS system has been specified on the basis of the results of WP1, of the analytical requirements, and taking into account the harsh and high-temperature environment of steel plants. The mathematical model for predicting how the concentration evolved during the transition of sequentially cast melts is presented in WP3 and is compared with the results of field trials in WP6. In the WP4, the LIBS system was constructed according to specifications and the particular needs of the factory trials, with special care to the mechanical stability of the optical modules and to isolation from the dust present in the steel shop. The instrument was fitted with built-in software for real-time data processing and discrimination of steel grades. Industrial trials performed at the factories of Sidenor and Acerinox are described in WP5. The results for the at-line LIBS monitoring of casting sequences are discussed and compared with those provided by LIBS and conventional techniques of samples collected from steel billets/slabs of mixed composition. In WP6 predictions of the mathematical model are compared with at-line LIBS data and with data from collected samples. Work package 7 summarizes the managing and coordination activities as well as the dissemination actions of the main results of the project.