| The design curve for T-section castings which shows the solidification sequence in different parts of a T-junction, for different thicknesses, was experimentally determined. The results were compared with the computer calculated data given in the literature and the difference was rationalized. Experimental curves show that the range in which the junction solidifies last is larger than the calculated predictions. The reason for this difference is the one dimensional assumption in Chvorinov's Rule calculations and other factors such as gating systems, alloy composition, pouring time and temperature effects which have not been considered in these calculations.;It was also observed that the thermocouple tests may not report the right data due to shrinkage cavity formation around the thermocouple tip. Some experiments were conducted to determine the effect of superheat, gating systems, end effect, alloy composition and pouring time on the solidification sequence, but further experiments are required to obtain a definite result.;Two different approaches were used in determination of the experimental data; observation of the shrinkage cavity(ies) and thermocouple measurements of solidification time for each portion of the casting. |
