Multiphase modelling of the transient flow for Sn-15Pb and 357.0 alloys in semi-solid die casting process

Abstract

Abstract The transient flow behavior of the semi-solid slurries for Sn-15Pb and 357.0 alloys during die casting process is investigated by experimental and numerical methods. A model for the transient-state three-dimensional multiphase flow based on the kinetic theory of granular flow is developed. This model is applied to investigate the distribution of solid concentration, flow state, pressure variation of the semi-solid slurry in the die casting process. The three important aspects of the multiphase flow, flow regime, particle-particle interaction and particle-liquid interaction, are interpreted according to the characteristic of the system. The model is verified by partial filling and in-situ observation experiments. Then it is applied for the phase segregation study of an elbow cavity encountered in practice. Results indicate that the 3D multiphase model can depict the flow characteristics of the semi-solid slurry very well. The inner arc side of the elbow cavity is easier to have liquid phase segregation than the outer arc side for the lower velocity gradients of the solid and liquid phases.