The numerical simulation technology of casting process is increasingly being applied in the manufacturing process of precision castings. The simulation analysis of precision casting technology predicts the possible occurrence of shrinkage porosity, shrinkage cavities, and other problems in castings, and optimizes process parameters through design experiments and optimization algorithms to find a good casting process plan. Through casting simulation, not only can the quality of castings be improved, but also the development cycle of castings can be shortened. The advantages of casting simulation technology are mainly manifested in the following aspects.
(1) Simulation can be conducted on various stages of casting pouring. The algorithms for simulating casting filling and solidification include three-dimensional finite element method, numerical method, priority difference method, etc. At present, the simulation of the casting filling process is relatively mature, and significant breakthroughs have been made in the accuracy and practicality of the simulation.
(2) Predict and analyze the possible defects that may occur during casting. During the production process of castings, casting defects are inevitable. Using casting simulation technology can predict the location of casting defects, enabling designers to make targeted structural improvements. The current defect simulation and prediction technology has become mature.
(3) Stress field analysis. Casting stress is an inevitable problem in castings. At present, casting simulation software has the analysis function of residual stress and residual strain.
Due to the widespread application of casting simulation technology, the entire casting design has become more three-dimensional. Compared to before, the expenditure on manpower, material resources, and financial resources used in the actual production of castings has been greatly reduced.