Finite element modelling of solidification phenomena

The process of solidification process is complex in nature and the simulati on of such process is required in industry before it is actually undertaken . Finite element method is used to simulate the heat transfer process accom panying the solidification process. The metal and the mould along with the air gap formation is accounted in the heat transfer simulation. Distortion of the casting is caused due to non-uniform shrinkage associated with the p rocess. Residual stresses are induced in the final castings. Simulation of the shrinkage and the thermal stresses are also carried out using finite el ement methods. The material behaviour is considered as visco-plastic. The s imulations are compared with available experimental data and the comparison is found to be good. Special considerations regarding the simulation of so lidification process are also brought out.