A Solidification Analysis on Centrifugal Casting of Metal Matrix Composites Containing Graphite Particles

Abstract

One dimensional heat transfer analysis during centrifugal casting of aluminum-silicon base composite containing graphite particles has been studied. For this purpose, a finite difference technique has been adopted. The results indicate that the thickness of the region in which dispersed graphite particles are segregated due to centrifugal force, is strongly influenced by speed of rotation of the mold. The thickness of graphite rich region near the inner periphery decreases with increase in speed thereby increasing the volume fraction of dispersion. The solidification time of the casting is also dependent upon the speed of rotation of the mold, and it decreases with increase in speed. This study also indicates that the presence of particles increase the solidification time of the casting. © 1994, The Iron and Steel Institute of Japan. All rights reserved.