Numerical analysis of influence of crucible shape on interface shape in a unidirectional solidification process

We carried out calculations to investigate the melt-crystal (m-c) interface shape with cylindrical and square crucibles and the influence of crucible shape on m-c interface shape using two-dimensional and three-dimensional global analyses. It was found that maximum deformation of the m-c interface occurs near the corner of the square crucible because outgoing heat flux, which has a significant influence on the m-c interface shape, has three-dimensionality. It was also found that shape and dimensions of the crucible have significant influence on the amount of outgoing heat flux. The results indicate that we should control not only heater power, growth ratio and melt flow but also shape and dimensions of crucibles in order to reduce deformation of the m-c interface. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.