Cellular automaton modeling of semi-solid microstructure formation

Computer modeling of semi-solid structure formation is of significance in both understanding the mechanisms of globular structure formation and determining the effect of solidification conditions on final microstructure. A modified cellular automaton (mCA) model has been developed, which is coupled with macroscopic models for heat transfer calculation and microscopic models for nucleation and grain growth. The mCA model is applied to A356 Al alloy - one of the most widely used semi-solid alloys, to predict grain morphology and grain size during semi-solid solidification, and determines the effects of pouring temperature on the final microstructure. The modeling results show that the lower the initial temperature, the finer grain size will be obtained. In addition, the model can be used to predict the solutal micro-segregation.