Three-Dimensional Modeling of Features of the Distribution of Electric and Thermal Fields during Conductive Electric Current Treatment of Melts

Abstract—

Using mathematical three-dimensional modeling methods, the features of the distribution of electric and thermal fields within the volume of the melt of the casting alloy A356 have been established during its treatment with electric current using parallel electrodes. It has been found that the geometry of the electrode system qualitatively and quantitatively determines the effect of electrothermal action on the melt during treatment with direct current. It has been shown that the depth of immersion of electrodes with an uninsulated lateral surface does not have an active influence on temperature processes during conductive electrocurrent treatment. The qualitative and quantitative data obtained for systems with uninsulated electrodes correspond to the results of experimental studies. It has been shown that changing the spatial geometry of the arrangement of electrodes with insulated lateral surfaces significantly affects the spatial distribution of electric and thermal fields, resulting in a more than threefold quantitative change in the characteristics of these fields within the melt volume. The method for controlling the processes of conductive electrothermal treatment of melts based on spatial changes in the type of electrode system does not require additional costs and can be carried out directly during the treatment process.