Mathematical Modelling of the Semi-Permanent Mould Casting of Aluminium Alloy Cylinder Heads and Engine Blocks

A study was performed of the sensitivity of computational solidification simulations to variations in several thermophysical properties and indicated that proper incorporation of the latent heat was the most important. Accurate determination of the heat transfer between the casting and the mould or core was also critical. Several applications to automotive castings of the model so developed are presented.