한국주조공학회

An integrated computer program consisting of a pre-processor, main solver, and post- processor was developed for the design of large steel castings. The pre-processor, based on the AutoCAD, enables the user to produce approval drawings, casting design drawings and mesh diagrams in sequence using a personal computer. In the main solver, two numerical models were employed; one models the fluid flow during mold filling, and the other models the heat transfer and solidification. The post-processor can be used to present simulation results such as flow pattern, mold filling sequences, solidification times, temperature gradients and location of shrinkage defects by color graphics. In order to validate the applicability of the present integrated program, a series of experiments on simple-shaped steel castings were carried out. After the validation of the present model, it was applied to the casting design of the large steel anchor of an SC42 alloy. Various solidification parameters such as a temperature distribution and a solidification time in the casting and the mold were compared with those obtained experimentally. Simulated results predicting shrinkage defects were in good agreement with those obtained experimentally. It was found that the present method can be successfully applied to the quantitative casting design for complex-shaped large steel castings.