Thesis; On particles and slags in steel casting

Dimitrios Siafakas thesis, On particles and slags in steel casting, from School of Engineering at Jönköping University has found, among other things, a scientifically valid explanation of irregularities in the viscous behavior of some metallurgical slag systems.

Dimitrios Siafakas thesis had a dual purpose.

• Improve, develop and standardize methods for measuring metallurgical slag thermophysical properties such as viscosity, surface tension, density etc.
• Identify which elements or substances can be utilized for grain refining of austenitic steels.

Thermophysical properties values are very important as input for modelling tools used by the metal making and casting industry for the development and improvement of metallurgical and casting processes. Standardization and development of the methods for measuring thermophysical properties can provide more accurate and reliable data which in turn can significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of modelling tools.

Future implementation of inoculation processes for austenitic steels by the industry can positively influence the mechanical properties of cast components and reduce risk of defects, significantly increasing product quality.

Both of the above can help in the optimization and development of metallurgical processes resulting in reduced manufacturing costs (minimize scrap rates, reduce the need for secondary processing) , increase product quality (reduced risk of defects, better properties) and improved environmental sustainability (less slag waste due to optimization of slags and deoxidation methods, reduced carbon footprint due to reduced scrap rates and better yield of materials).

– I have found a scientifically valid explanation of irregularities in the viscous behavior of some metallurgical slag systems. The identification of several potent substances for the microstructural refinement of as-cast Hadfield steel. Experimental proof that there is a good correlation between thermodynamic modeling and experimental observations in both cases (slags and particle precipitation in Hadfield steels), says Dimitrios Siafakas.

Dimitrios studied for his bachelors and 1st Master in University of Ioannina, Greece (Department of Material Science and Engineering). The main focus of his bachelors was Material Science and engineering in general and during his Master I specialized in steel corrosion.

He continued his studies for his 2nd Master in KTH again within the area of material science with focus on metallurgical processes and component casting.

Here you can find his theses. External link, opens in new window.