Abstract
The microporosity formation in a vertical unidirectionally solidifying Al-4.1%Cu alloy casting is modeled in both microgravity and standard gravity as well as in the conditions of decreased (Moon, Mars) and increased (Jupiter) gravity. Due to the unique opportunities offered by a low-gravity environment (absence of metallostatic pressure and of natural convection in the solidifying alloy) future microgravity experiments will significantly contribute to attaining a better physical understanding of the mechanisms of microporosity formation. One of the aims of the present theoretical investigation is to predict what microporosity patterns will look like in microgravity in order to help plan a future microgravity experiment. To perform these simulations, the authors suggest a novel three-phase model of solidification that accounts for the solid, liquid, and gas phases in the mushy zone. This model accounts for heat transfer, fluid flow, macrosegregation, and microporosity formation in the solidifying alloy. Special attention is given to the investigation of the influence of microporosity formation on the inverse segregation. Parametric analyses for different initial hydrogen concentrations and different gravity conditions are carried out.
