Multiscale solidification simulation of Sr-modified Al-Si-Mg alloy in die casting

Abstract

Thermomechanical casting simulations incorporating solidification models are widely applied to improve the dimensional accuracy of casting components. The solidification path is commonly described based on Scheil-Gulliver assumptions which however fail to describe the effect of Strontium in Sr-modified Al-Si-Mg casting alloys. Strontium, even in small amounts, strongly affects the solidification morphology of the Al-Si eutectic together with its growth undercooling and hence the fraction solid-temperature relation during later stages of solidification. In order to address this problem, a dedicated micro-macro simulation approach is proposed here. The macroscopic thermomechanical casting simulation is linked with a spatially resolved multi-phase field simulation of the microstructure. Due to the fine fibrous morphology of the Si eutectic, a two-level homogenization scheme was applied to derive the effective mechanical properties of the Al alloy during its solidification. The proposed multiscale simulation and homogenization approach was applied to a permanent mould casting using an axisymmetric bowl cast from A356 for experimental validation.