SolidCast, FLOWCast and OPTICast
Finite Solutions Inc. 4769 Highland Park Dr. Slinger, Wisconsin 53086-9441 262-644-0785
finite.solutions
dave@finitesolutions.com
Entry Price Point: OPTI-
Cast starts at $8,000, FlowCast at $12,000 and SolidCast at $17,000. Overview: Finite Solutions’
metal casting simulation software is comprised of three programs: SOLIDCast, FLOWCast and OPTICast. SOLIDCast simulates multiple metal pour types and mold processes using the latest in graphic technology from 3-D modeling and
X-ray images to AVI video files. An add-on to the SOLIDCast software, FLOWCast modeling simulates how molten metal will flow through gating systems and fill metal mold casting cavities. OPTICast works in conjunc- tion with SOLIDCast, targeting metal casting simulation condi- tions to optimize mold designs for the casting floor. Newest Features: SOLID- Cast maximum mesh size is in- creased to 60 million nodes. The FLOWCast Fixed Volume Fill Utility program has been added to set up meshes to run with metal transfer from one part of the mold to another, rather than by addition to the model during the filling process. For Flow-
Cast, a fixed volume fill feature provides more realistic tilt-pour and roll over simulations. Software’s Strengths:
SOLIDCast is sold as a site license, so it can be run on all computers at no extra cost. SOLIDCast includes both gating and riser design wizards, so that simulation actually helps design an effective rigging system, not just test one. Calculations are included for rigging iron cast- ings, taking advantage of graphite expansion. SOLIDCast calculates both thermal and volumetric changes during solidification. FLOWCast models convection, conduction and radiation in the mold, so gating design can be analyzed to predict and mini- mize flow-related defects such as misruns, oxide formation or mold erosion. FLOWCast is a full-fea- tured CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulation, based on the Navier-Stokes equations. With FLOWCast, temperature, velocity and pressure during the fill can be viewed, from any angle to make evaluation easier. What’s Unique: OPTI-
Cast works in conjunction with SOLIDCast. OPTICast auto- mates the simulation process. Start with an initial design for a casting, with gating and risering, typically created using the Gating and Riser Design Wizards. Then select the following elements: Design Variables, Constraints, The Objective Function. Once these elements are identified, launch the Optimization Run. Model changes are made and simulation results are evaluated, completely automatically, until the desired result is achieved. Using OPTICast, an engineer can start with an initial design and allow the computer to do the work of modifying the design and running simulations to achieve an optimum result.
44 | METAL CASTING DESIGN & PURCHASING | Sept/Oct 2016
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