Simulation of thermal stress and hot tearing in engine block casting

Using finite element method, a numerical simulation is presented for engine block casting. The filling process analysis provides an accurate initial temperature field to the thermal stress and hot tearing investigations; meanwhile, it is useful in prediction of cooling shut. The thermal stress distribution after solidification of the casting is solved. To assess the hot tearing, the RGD criterion is adopted. Both hot tearing indicator and thermal stress can be used to estimate the susceptibility of hot tearing. The results can offer a reference to casting parameter design for engine block.