Combined analytical and numerical front tracking approach to modeling directional solidification of a TiAl-based intermetallic alloy for design of microgravity experiments

Marek Rebow, David J. Browne, Yves Fautrelle

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

A three-step combined analytical and numerical approach to thermal modelling of a two-heater power-down furnace for controlled directional solidification of an intermetallic alloy is proposed. An analytical sensitivity analysis of the thermal model is carried out to show the effect of adiabatic zone length, and both hot-zone and cold-zone heater temperatures, on the initial thermal gradient in the sample and on the length of melt in the adiabatic zone. The subsequent axisymmetric front tracking method (FTM) simulations of directional solidification of a binary intermetallic Ti-46at.%Al alloy show that temperature gradient in the melt declines and velocity of the solid-liquid front increases with time, thus promoting good conditions for a columnar to equiaxed transition. The proposed analytical calculations combined with full-scale numerical FTM simulations provide a convenient and predictive optimization tool for the two-heater power-down furnace design and growth conditions for the future microgravity experiments.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSolidification and Gravity V
PublisherTrans Tech Publications Ltd
Pages243-248
Number of pages6
ISBN (Print)0878492909, 9780878492909
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2010
Event5th International Conference on Solidification and Gravity - Miskolc-Lillafured, Hungary
Duration: 4 Sep 20085 Sep 2008

Publication series

NameMaterials Science Forum
Volume649
ISSN (Print)0255-5476
ISSN (Electronic)1662-9752

Conference

Conference5th International Conference on Solidification and Gravity
Country/TerritoryHungary
CityMiskolc-Lillafured
Period4/09/085/09/08

Keywords

  • Columnar to equiaxed transition
  • Intermetallic alloys
  • Microgravity experiments
  • Modelling

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