Casting Process Modeling Round-Up
This rundown provides a brief review of metal flow modeling software programs available to metalcasters. SHANNON WETZEL, SENIOR EDITOR
C
asting process model- ing has been used for decades by large
automotive companies and high volume casting facilities to improve casting quality and streamline the design process. In recent years, low and medium-production facilities have been investing in the software, as well. Christof Heisser, president of
MAGMA Foundry Technologies, Schaumburg, Ill., said with most high production facilities already using the software, the majority of new custom- ers are small to medium facilities. Computer operating systems have become more affordable, and the pay-
30 | MODERN CASTING September 2011
back on investing in simulation software has been proven. Te question for many metalcasters has shifted from “should we invest in modeling software?” to “which software package should we use?” According to Tony Midea, product
development manager for Foseco, Cleveland, the price disparity among vendors seems to be shrinking. But if price is a concern, it should not dictate which software you choose, he said. “If you are worried about price, lease
the program or talk to the vendor about creative ways to finance it,” Midea said. “You will find it’s worth the investment.” Midea, who has worked extensively with casting process modeling soft-
ware and published several articles on modeling developments and applica- tions in the casting industry, offers 12 questions to consider when investigat- ing purchasing solidification software: • What specific casting processes was this software originally designed for and what are the areas of expertise?
• How many users are from the industry; how many are from the same type of casting facility?
• Is the software able to accurately model my specific casting process?
• Will I be able to add more capabilities and functions to my software package as my needs change and grow?
• Does it use Navier-stokes solvers—
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