An analytical solution for the unidirectional solidification problem (Q1323709)

This paper is concerned with an analytical solution of the unidirectional solidification problem, which incorporates movement of the casting at the interface. The derivation of the analytical solution requires the simultaneous solution of the transient heat equations, for the mold, gaseous gap, and solid and liquid parts of the melt. The analytical solution is extended so that contamination layers on the mold and casting can be incorporated as well as an initial gap. This is achieved by introducing virtual layers of mold, gas, and casting. Using the extended solution, the effects of interfacial resistance, air conductivity, and gap variation on solidification rates are examined.