Phase-field simulation of dendrite growth under forced flow conditions in an Al-Cu welding molten pool

A quantitative phase-field model for directional solidification is applied to study dendrite growth under forced flow conditions in an Al-Cu Gas Tungsten Arc (GTA) welding molten pool. Evolution of the dendrite morphology and the solute field under forced flow conditions is simulated. Growth of columnar grains goes through three periods, including the initial instability period, the competitive growth period and the relatively stable period. The solute segregation, the solute redistribution and the solute concentration in the liquid side of the interface are investigated, respectively. For the given conditions, simulation results are in good agreement with experimental findings.