Problem
Continuous casting of steel is the process where molten steel is solidified into a semi-finished billet, bloom, or slab for subsequent rolling in the finishing mills. Effective water cooling of continuous casting rolls is critical. Any drop in water pressure, even from a leaking hose, can result in reduced water flow causing water to remain in the rolls longer than recommended. Heat from the steel making process can cause slow-moving water in the roll to overheat and flash into steam creating steam hammer. Steam hammer can lead to excessive vibration that can cause fractures in the mechanical face seals used in rotary joints and lead to premature seal failure.

Solution
For harsh environments such as those found in steel production, a rotary joint with a quad-seal design is better suited to handle steam hammer. DuraSeal™ seal rings specially formulated for Kadant Johnson rotary joints are capable of absorbing shock loads and preventing otherwise catastrophic rotary joint failures resulting from steam hammer.