Simplified pressure model for quantitative shrinkage porosity prediction in steel castings

In order to reduce the computational effort, a simplified pressure model is proposed for predicting shrinkage-related defects in steel castings. Based on the specific conditions developing during casting solidification, the governing fluid flow equations (i.e., Stokes and Darcy) have been reformulated such as the pressure field could be calculated only based on volume (density) changes occurring during the solidification process. Velocity is thus eliminated from the governing equations of fluid flow therefore simplifying the method of solution for pressure and tremendously reducing the computational effort. Model development and simulation results are presented and discussed.