The Influence of Ultrasound on the Microstructure Formation during the Solidification of A356 Ingots Processed via a 2-Zone Induction Melting Furnace

摘要

To study the formation of the microstructure under the influence of ultrasound, a 2-zone furnace and an ultrasound system were used. The 2-zone furnace is an induction furnace with two separate coils (a top coil and a bottom coil). By controlling both the top and bottom coils output power independently, the furnace can create various temperature gradients including a mushy zone and cooling rates in different regions of the graphite crucible. A water-cooled chill block was applied at the bottom of the crucible. The ultrasound probe was inserted at the top of the crucible. The top of the crucible was also thermally insulated. A numerical model was developed to predict the temperature gradients and mushy zone evolution in the crucible. The effects of ultrasound on the microstructure formation in A356 alloy were studied. Cooling curve analysis was performed at various locations in the crucible.