The most significant mode of heat transfer in an investment casting process is through radiation. It is critical that this be fully understood and accounted for when planning the process parameters for any casting. One must understand the radiation effects during the metal pouring and cooling cycle, as self-radiation and external casting conditions will affect cooling rates and solidification patterns. Additionally, pre-pouring soaking determines the shell temperatures before the pour and if this is not taken into account accurately, it will adversely affect the desired outcome.
This paper delves into radiation and the downstream effects in the casting of certain process scenarios, like heat loss in the mold before pouring, self-radiation affects on solidification, cooling of the shell and poured casting in ambient conditions versus an enclosed chamber (i.e., a can), effects of kaowool and other insulating mediums. These scenarios will be demonstrated using computer analysis with the ProCAST Casting Simulation Software by ESI.