Effects of convex hull on the surface of steel ingot
Abstract
This paper is intended to study the effects of convex hull on the surface of steel ingot. Convex hull is a kind of geometry which describe how the top of the ingot surface should be. The effects of convex hull on the steel ingot surface will influence the microstructure, mechanical properties and lifetime of steel parts. This paper is aims to explore the effects that convex hull has on the surface of steel ingot and its related mechanical properties.
1. Introduction
Steel ingots are one of the most commonly seen tools used by manufacturers in producing steel products such as steel suspension bridges, steel structures, and steel ships. In steel ingots producing process, convex hull is a kind of geometry which describe how the top of the ingot surface should be. The convexity of the top surface of steel ingot is crucial for subsequent process. The convex hull affects the microstructure, mechanical properties and lifetime of steel parts. This paper is aims to explore the effects of convex hull on the surface of steel ingot and its related mechanical properties in order to provide valuable insights for those interested in this field.
2. Convex hull
Convex hull is a kind of geometry which is defined as the area which goes around the top of the ingot surface. The convexity of the upper surface of the steel ingot is important in completely filling the prefabricated moulds, allowing the casting or pressing to take place without spilling out or overflowing. It also helps to reduce the shrinkage of the steel and reduce the gap, avoiding the formation of gas in the molten steel. The convex hulls influence on the microstructure and mechanical properties of steel ingot is very important.
3. Effect of convex hull on the surface of steel ingot
3.1 Effect on the microstructure
The convexity of the top of the steel ingot surface has an effect on the microstructure of the ingot. It affects the grain size of the steel ingot. In the case of a steel ingot with a rough top surface, the heat treatment of the steel ingot will be affected, which can lead to increased grain size, increased porosity, and increased inclusion content. On the other hand, when the steel ingot top surface is smooth, it can be beneficial in terms of improving the microstructure of the steel. The steel ingot will generally have a finer grain size and smaller inclusions, ultimately improving the mechanical properties of the steel.
3.2 Effect on the mechanical properties
The convex hull affects the tensile strength of the steel. In the case of the steel ingot with a rough top surface, the tensile strength of the steel will be reduced due to the increased grain size and inclusions, which will reduce the ductility of the steel. On the other hand, if the surface of steel ingot is smooth, it can improve the tensile strength of the steel due to smaller inclusions and finer grain size.
3.3 Effect on the lifetime of the steel parts
The convexity of the steel ingot top surface has a direct impact on the lifetime of the steel parts that are produced from the ingot. In the case of steel products such as steel bridges or steel ships, the steel ingot with a smooth surface will be beneficial in terms of lifetime, as the steel will have better properties and improved fatigue strength. On the other hand, if the surface of the steel ingot is rough, it can lead to fatigue cracking of the steel parts and reduced lifetime.
4. Conclusion
This paper has discussed the effects of convex hull on the surface of steel ingot. It is clear that the convexity of the top surface of steel ingot has a direct influence on the microstructure, mechanical properties and lifetime of the steel products that are produced from the ingot. It is of great importance to ensure a smooth surface on the top of the steel ingot in order to obtain the highest quality steel products and improve their lifetime performance.
