The aim of this work is to develop a numerical model capable of predicting the grain density in the Mg-based matrix phase of an AZ91/SiC composite, as a function of the total mass fraction of the embedded SiC particles. Based on earlier work in a range of alloy systems, we assume an exponential relationship between the grain density and the maximum supercooling during solidification. Analysis of data from cast samples with different thicknesses, and mass fractions of added SiCp, permits conclusions to be drawn on the role of SiCp in increasing grain density. By fitting the data, an empirical nucleation law is derived that can be used in a micro model. Numerical simulation based on the model can predict the grain density of magnesium alloys containing SiC particles, using the mass fraction of the particles as inputs. These predictions are compared with measured data.
During excavation of the cremation cemetery of urnfield culture in Legnica at Spokojna Street (Lower Silesia, Poland), dated to 1100-700
BC, the largest - so far in Poland – a collection of casting moulds from the Bronze Age was discovered: three moulds for axes casting
made out of stone and five moulds for casting sickles, razors, spearhead and chisels, made out of clay. This archaeological find constituted
fittings of foundrymen’s graves. In order to perform the complete analysis of moulds in respect of their application in the Bronze Age
casting technology analytical methods, as well as, computer aided methods of technological processes were used. Macroscopic
investigations were performed and the X-ray fluorescence spectrometry method was used to analyse the chemical composition and metal
elements content in mould cavities. Moulds were subjected to three-dimensional scanning and due to the reverse engineering the geometry
of castings produced in these moulds were obtained.
The gathered data was used to perform design and research works by means of the MAGMA5
software. Various variants of the pouring
process and alloys solidification in these archaeological moulds were simulated. The obtained results were utilised in the interpretation of
the Bronze Age casting production in stone and clay moulds, with regard to their quality and possibility of casting defects occurrence
being the result of these moulds construction.
The reverse engineering, modelling and computer simulation allowed the analysis of moulds and castings. Investigations of casting moulds
together with their digitalisation and reconstruction of casting technology, confirm the high advancement degree of production processes
in the Bronze Age.