Effects of the precipitation of stabilizers on the mechanism of grain fracturing in a zirconia metering nozzle

The mechanism of grain fracturing in a zirconia metering nozzle used in the continuous casting process was studied. The phase composition, microstructure, and chemical composition of the residual samples were studied using an X-ray fluorescence analyzer, scanning electron microscope, and electron probe. Results revealed that the composition, structure, and mineral phase of the original layer, transition layer, and affected layer of the metering nozzle differed because of stabilizer precipitation and steel slag permeation. The stabilizer MgO formed low-melting phases with steel slag and impure SiO₂ on the boundaries (pores) of zirconia grains; consequently, grain fracturing occurred and accelerated damage to the metering nozzle was observed.