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A semi-empirical method for selecting the processing parameters of laser cladding is proposed. This phenomenological approach uses simple mathematical formulae, derived from a statistical analysis of measured data, to relate the laser cladding parameters with the geometric features of the clad track. Given the prescribed clad height and available laser beam power, the proposed method allows to calculate values of the scanning speed and powder feed rate which are required to obtain low dilution, pore free coatings, fusion bonded to the substrate. To illustrate the application of this method, variable powder feed rate laser cladding experiments were carried out with Stellite 6 powder on mild steel substrates. In this technique the laser beam power and radius and the processing speed are kept constant, while the powder feed rate is varied along a single track length according to a specified linear function. The expressions derived from the model allowed to plot the experimental data in a coherent manner, revealing the combined role of the different processing parameters.

The paper deals with the stability of centerline inhomogenity of continuously cast slabs and hot rolled products. The centerline segregation is a disadvantageous failure of slabs which can affect the quality properties of the final products. During hot rolling of slabs the centerline segregation pattern will become thin and stretch and it can also be detected in the middle part of heavy plates and coils. It is a common experience that the centerline segregation of heavy plates can not be easily decreased by post heat treatment. The pattern of the centerline segregation was modeled physically by preparing a sandwich structure of steel plates with different levels of carbon and alloying elements. Homogenization experiments were performed and the samples were examined metallographically. Diffusional calculations proved the governing role of carbon activity which is influenced by the distribution of alloying elements.

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Industrial data set with 400 CC (continuous casting) steel slabs were analysed by a statistical method for revealing the real connections between the technological parameters, heat transfer model results and the precisely determined centerline segregation index. Because of the poor correlations a new model was developed in which the shrinkage and deformations of the shells of the slabs can also be taken into account. It has been proved that the stopping of liquid movement below about 30 % liquid ratio plays an important role in the centerline segregation formation. The conclusions of the calculations are in good accordance with the results of the metallographical analysis.