February 2024 Volume 6

MATERIALS

Shaping the Future with Clean Steel Solutions In the ever-evolving sector of manufacturing, the call for lightweighting resonates across diverse industries, driven by the need to optimize strength, minimize cost and weight and advance sustainability goals. Clean steel, devoid of detrimental nonmetallic inclusions, emerges as the linchpin in this pursuit, offering superior performance in high-stress applications. By partnering with clean steel suppliers committed to continuous improvement, OEMs can secure high-quality steel, contributing to a more sustainable future. With the right approach, proactive suppliers are not merely shaping metal, but shaping the future. Troy Kaczorowski Principal Process Metallurgist Charter Steel

As the process advances to casting and teeming, a reputable supplier of clean steel will continue to uphold stringent measures designed to ensure the integrity and cleanliness of the final product. Specialized refractory equipment, such as low-moisture tundish refractories, may be employed to limit oxygen introduction through water, while anti-clogging techniques play a crucial role in preventing nonmetallic buildup, thereby minimizing the risk of contamination in the molten steel. In essence, this commitment to meticulous processes underscores a reliable supplier’s dedication to delivering clean, high-quality steel components suitable for lightweighting applications across diverse industries. By understanding and evaluating each supplier’s methodology through the outlined processes, OEMs can effectively discern between a reliable supplier and one that may fall short of expectations. Identifying The Right Clean Steel Suppliers In industries where lightweighting is becoming increasingly necessary, a growing number of newcomers may lack the institutional knowledge and firsthand expertise required for success. The right steel partner plays a pivotal role by offering invaluable support through close collaboration on an OEM’s goals. This involves sharing insights and working hand-in-hand to facilitate a seamless integration of their expertise into these rapidly evolving markets. To secure a dependable steel partner that can meet the distinct requirements of each OEM’s lightweighting initiatives, it is crucial to prioritize suppliers with a steadfast dedication to continuous improvement and collaboration. As OEMs are required to embark on an ongoing journey of refinement and innovation, finding a partner that mirrors that same commitment is paramount to fostering a forward-thinking relationship. For the utmost success, seek steel manufacturers that demonstrate this commitment through initiatives such as product and process trials, rigorous lab testing, investments in skilled personnel, state-of-the-art technology and other collaborative measures.

Troy Kaczorowski is currently the principal process metallurgist for Charter Steel and has a degree in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh. He has worked in the steel industry for nearly 20 years including over 15 years of melt shop experience with a focus on clean steel technology and processes. In addition to providing technical guidance to various ASTM technical committees,

he has served as a Clean Steel session chair for AISTech and has presented his work on nonmetallic inclusions in bearing steels at the ASTM International Symposium on Rolling Bearing Steels. For any questions about clean steel & lightweighting, reach out to Charter Steel’s team of experts at Commercial@CharterSteel.com.

Lab worker at Charter Steel’s Saukville mill, testing product samples to assure they meet customer requirements.

FIA MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2024 38