Application of Internal Variable Convection for Modelling of T-Shape Mould Filling

Numerical methods for thixoforming modelling are shortly reviewed in the paper. Present applications, especially for thixotropy phenomena modelling, are presented. Advantages and disadvantages of methods based on solid mechanics or computational fluid dynamics are pointed out. Internal Variable Convection (IVC) method is introduced as an alternative for classical Lagrangian or Eulerian methods. Numerical simulations of T-shape mould filling, based on the data taken from literature, are shown. Presented results confirm possibilities of thixoforming processes modelling with Internal Variable Convection method. However, some deficiencies of the present solution are pointed out in the paper as well. It concerns mainly material front tracking methods and treatment of boundary layer. Some ways to resolve existing constraints, as well as plans for future are presented.