Numerical Simulation of CM247SX Single Crystal High Pressure Turbine Vane

Numerical simulation of single crystal high pressure turbine vane is carried out with an objective to investigate the effects of process parameters such as (i) process temperature, (ii) mould withdrawal rate, on thermal profiles, mushy zone, cooling rate and temperature gradient of the casting. The grain structure modelling is performed by Cellular Automation Finite Element (CAFE) module of the commercial finite element based software. Scanning electron microscopy of the experimentally cast single crystal vane is characterized. The simulation studies have shown that the increased process temperature and mold withdrawal rate led to increased temperature gradient and cooling rate of the vane. Conditions for the formation of undesirable stray grains is determined.