Computer simulation of investment casting processes

The role of computer simulation in the investment casting process is expanding, and applications to the determination of process conditions and part design are now being explored more fully. Simulations can be used for grain size control, alloy selection, and predicting hot cracking and shrinkage. Additional leverage can be generated through the use of electronic data to assist in tooling, and through feedback to the design engineer, facilitating geometric design changes that are both cost- and time-effective from a casting perspective.