Casting of Ti prostheses and implants with the Aid of numerical simulation

This paper attempts to use numerical method to predict and control the casting defects in titanium prostheses and implants. The geometry of the objects were obtained by three-dimensional digitizing or created by a computer-aided design program, and then converted into a simulation software (MAGMASOFT). Both mold filling and solidification of the castings were numerically simulated. The shrinkage porosity was quantitatively predicted by a feeding criterion, and the potential filling defects and gas-pore sensitivity were estimated based on the filling and solidification results. Optimization of the casting design and process parameters were carried out through repeated ‘computer pours.’