Editing Metal casting (section)

==Casting process simulation==
[[File:Poligonsoft casting.jpg|thumb|A high-performance [[software]] for the simulation of casting processes provides opportunities for an interactive or automated evaluation of results (here, for example, of mold filling and solidification, [[porosity]] and flow characteristics).]]
[[:es:Modelado de procesos de fundición|Casting processes simulation]] uses [[numerical analysis|numerical methods]] to calculate cast component quality considering mold filling, [[solidification]] and cooling, and provides a quantitative prediction of casting mechanical properties, [[thermal stress|thermal stresses]] and distortion. Simulation accurately describes a cast component's quality up-front before production starts. The casting rigging can be designed with respect to the required component properties. This has benefits beyond a reduction in pre-production sampling, as the precise layout of the complete casting system also leads to [[energy]], material, and tooling savings.

The software supports the user in component design, the determination of melting practice and casting methoding through to pattern and mold making, [[heat treating|heat treatment]], and finishing. This saves costs along the entire casting manufacturing route.

Casting process simulation was initially developed at universities starting from the early [[70s|1970s]], mainly in Europe and in the U.S., and is regarded as the most important innovation in casting technology over the last 50 years. Since the late [[80s|1980s]], commercial programs are available which make it possible for foundries to gain new insight into what is happening inside the mold or die during the casting process.<ref>{{Cite journal |author=N. Hansen |author2=Erwin Flender |author3=Jörg C. Sturm |date=April 2010 |title=Thirty Years of Casting Process Simulation |journal=International Journal of Metalcasting |language=en |volume=4 |issue=2 |pages=7–23 |doi=10.1007/BF03355463}}</ref>