A nonuniform contact pressure between the casting and the mold during the solidification process can result in a casting surface with wavy defects as well as undesirable residual stresses. The latter could cause spontaneous failure of the casting at a later date. Dr. J. R. Barber will use measured contact resistance and contact pressure between the casting and mold to study the solidification process. The related experiments will be conducted at ALCOA Research Laboratory at no cost to this award thus demonstrating its industrial significance. This study should lead to optimum material properties and mold cooling strategies for a better surface finish and minimum residual stresses in a casting. Dr. Barber is most qualified to undertake this interdisciplinary research involving solid mechanics and heat transfer. Dr. O. Richmond, ALCOA, will conduct the experimental studies and participate in the theoretical studies. Also Dr. A. Azarkhin, ALCOA, wail be an advisor and an active participant in the theoretical studies.
