Primary dendrite spacing as a function of directional solidification parameters in an AlSiCu alloy

Abstract

Dendritic growth is of considerable importance, since this phenomenon controls solute segregation and hence, the material mechanical properties. The main objective of this investigation is to present a directional solidification study of the Al-8.5 wt% Si-2.5 wt% Cu alloy with dendritic growth. Such an alloy was processed at several growth rates and thermal gradients and an investigation of the dendritic growth was carried out. The solidification microstructure was studied by comparing experimental dendrite spacings with results furnished by theoretical models. Such a comparison allows one to calculate primary dendrite spacing as a function of growth rate, thermal gradient and alloy thermophysical parameters.