Filling in a casting process consists of analyzing the filling pattern and associated defects, for instance, whether defects are sent to an overflow or remain trapped in the part. Simulation analysis allows a design to be tested before ever going into production, both validating its effectiveness and saving money. Accurate filling is important in order to have the correct thermal profile at the end of fill to predict the solidification behavior.
In sand casting, important components to control solidification include chills and insulating sleeves embedded within the mold in order to alleviate shrinkage porosity problems. FLOW-3D Cast can import each item with the appropriate thermal properties, combined with a correct thermal profile from the fill, to determine whether shrinkage problems will exist.