Title: Zone melting calculations: an ideal spreadsheet application

Authors: J.R. Cahoon

Addresses: Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 5V6, Canada

Abstract: A simple Excel or Quattro Pro spreadsheet method for the accurate and rapid determination of concentration distributions in zone refined and zone levelled ingots is described and illustrated. Only a fundamental understanding of the solidification process is needed with no requirement for complex mathematical equations or techniques. The spreadsheet method is applicable for any zone length, any value of distribution coefficient, and any number of zone passes. The assumption of an initial uniform concentration distribution is not necessary and therefore any initial concentration distribution can be used. Further, the effect of an initial transient on the concentration distribution is easily accommodated. The graphical capabilities of the spreadsheets provide the means for rapid and simple visual presentation of the results.

Keywords: spreadsheets; transient distribution coefficient; zone refining; zone levelling; zone melting; solidification; concentration profiles.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCAT.2006.008638

International Journal of Computer Applications in Technology, 2006 Vol.25 No.1, pp.1 - 8

Published online: 13 Jan 2006 *

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