Phase-field simulations of solidification of Al-Cu binary alloys

The dendrite growth process during the solidification of the Al-4.5%Cu binary alloy was simulated using the phase-field model, proposed by Kim et al. Solute diffusion equation and heat transfer equation were solved simultaneously. The effects of the noise on the dendrite growth, solute and temperature profile in the undercooled alloy melt were investigated. The results indicate that the noise can trigger the growth of the secondary arms, and increase the highest temperature and solute concentration, but not influence the tip operating state. The solute and temperature gradients in the tip are the highest.