Alternative techniques for casting process simulation

Over the past 20 years, casting process simulation has been an active area of research. The simulation techniques are either based on solving governing partial differential equations using numerical schemes such as the finite element or finite difference methods, or a variety of heuristically based geometry driven methods. Numerical methods are more accurate, but geometry driven methods are computationally less expensive. This paper explores two alternative techniques to overcome some of the limitations of traditional numerical simulation schemes for the casting process simulation. The first technique uses a geometric transformation method known as the medial axis transformation, to predict hot spots whereas the second technique, based on meshless methods, is used for simulating the mould filling process.