Boundary and geometry inverse thermal problems in continuous casting

This chapter discusses an algorithm for the boundary condition estimation and the phase change front identification in continuous casting process. This kind of problem is formulated as the inverse problem. Because both boundary conditions and front location are searched simultaneously, the task resolved is called an "inverse boundary-geometrical problem." The solution procedure utilizes sensitivity coefficients and temperature measurements inside the solid phase. The algorithms proposed make use of the boundary element method, with cubic boundary elements. The Bezier splines are employed for modeling the interface between the solid and liquid phase. To demonstrate the main advantages of the developed formulation, continuous casting of aluminum alloy is considered as a numerical example. The results obtained are also compared to the experimental data and results acquired from other authors.