A copper mould tube is a key component used in continuous casting of metals — most commonly in steel production.It shapes and solidifies molten metal into a continuous form, ready for further processing.
Here’s its main purpose and function:
1. Copper Mould Tube Function in Continuous Casting
In continuous casting, molten metal is poured into the copper mould tube, which is a hollow, water-cooled copper tube.
The copper conducts heat very efficiently, so it rapidly extracts heat from the molten metal, forming a solid outer shell while the inside remains liquid.
This partially solidified strand is then continuously withdrawn from the bottom while more molten metal enters from the top — allowing uninterrupted casting.
2. Why Copper Mould Tube Use Copper
High thermal conductivity → quickly removes heat, ensuring fast solidification.
Good wear resistance → withstands high temperatures and molten metal contact.
Often coated (e.g., with nickel, chrome) to improve hardness, reduce friction, and extend lifespan.
3. Copper Mould Tube Applications
Steel industry: Making billets, blooms, slabs.
Non-ferrous metals: Casting copper, aluminum, and alloys.
Used in both round mould tubes (for pipes/rods) and square/rectangular mould tubes (for billets/slabs).