Computer simulation of the solidification process in a three dimensional axisymmetric aluminium casting

Abstract

The Finite Element Method was used to determine the solidification pattern in a three dimensional axisymmetric aluminium casting. A modified temperature dependent specific heat Cp (T) function was considered to take into account the energy release at the solid-liquid interface. A static triangular mesh was used to simulate the physical domain. An experimental test was run to verify the accuracy of the numerical predictions on an actual Al 99,8% casting, by a careful monitoring of the temperature/time relationships at several points in the solidifying material. In particular, numerical results were compared with experimental ones, both in terms of macrostructure prediction and metallurgical behaviour, obtaining a fairly good agreement.