Flow field and its effect on microstructure in cold crucible directional solidification of Nb containing TiAl alloy

► A 3D finite element model was established to calculate melt flow of TiAl alloy in cold crucible directional solidification. ► The effects of different parameters on the flow patterns were evaluated and discussed. ► The continuous growing of TiAl columnar grains will be disturbed under stronger melt convection. ► An appropriate melt flow can effectively promote the solute and the microstructure homogenization of TiAl alloy.