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Theoretical Considerations

The solidification rate of alloys is an important processing variable. For example, solidification rate relates directly to the coarseness (or fineness) of dentritic structures and hence controls the spacing and distribution of microheterogeneities, such as dentritic microsegregation, second phases, inclusions and microporosity. Although most types of macrosegregation are not directly related to solidication rate, it is known that larger castings (i.e., castings with relatively slower solidification rates) are more prone to a manufacturing viewpoint (e.g., production rate and riser design), metal casting engineers should recognize solidification heat transfer as an important topic.

Information source: D.R. Poirier and E.J. Poirier, Heat Transfer Fundamentals for Metal Casting.