Computer Simulation in Metals Research

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Abstract
The role of computers in applied research is discussed. Computer simulation is considered as a new set of mathematical techniques which augments and goes beyond the older analytic techniques. The major challenge of simulation methods is scientific rather than computational in the selection of models to represent a physical process. Models are discussed in the context of the problems of applied science. The simulation approach differs from conventional methods in that several models are combined to represent the one physical process. The role of the computer is to fit the models together in an interactive ensemble. Simulation techniques are exemplified first by a simulation of the bending and fracture of a Charpy impact specimen. The simple simulation is shown to be a powerful technique for automatically analyzing the data output from an automated test system. Two applications of simulation techniques to solidification processes are next described. The first deals with dendrite growth. A computer simulation shows that models for heat (or solute) flow coupled with a model for the solid-liquid interface are adequate to account for the branching and growth velocity of dendrites. The second deals with a solidifying casting aud illustrates the way additional models can be added to allow the description given by the simulation to resolve finer details of behavior. The wide scope of simulation techniques is illustrated by reference to the simulation of transmission electron micrographs. In conclusion, the sequential approach to simulation is recommended. In this approach, the simplest possible simulation is developed first. Then, additional models are added to refine the original treatment and improve its resolution.

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