Novel technique for outlining the solidification crater profile of a commercial-size aluminum alloy ingot cast by the direct chill method

This communication describes a simple and novel technique for outlining the solidification crater profile of a commercial-size aluminum alloy ingot cast obtained by the direct chill (DC) method. The key feature of this method is the addition of a commercial grain refiner to the liquid pool in the mold. The method has been proven to be an effective technique for outlining the solidification crater profile of a commercial-size DC ingot that has been cast vertically or horizontally. This method can be used for any casting process where there is a steady-state solidification front during casting.