Phase Diagrams and Solidification
AimsIntroductionThermodynamics: Basic termsFree energy curvesPhase diagrams 1Phase diagrams 2 - eutectic reactionsPhase diagrams 3 - peritectic reactionsThe Gibbs phase ruleInterpretation of cooling curvesExperiment and resultsThe lever ruleModern usesFurther considerationsSummaryQuestionsGoing furtherTLP creditsTLP contentsShow all contentViewing and downloading resourcesAbout the TLPsTerms of useFeedbackCredits Print this page
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Summary
In this package, the theoretical background to phase diagrams has been shown, as well as a method for constructing part of a diagram. Explanation has been given of how to use a phase diagram, and how it applies to real systems, and to understanding solidification.
It should now be appreciated that phase diagrams are a valuable resource in predicting behaviour of alloys during solidification, and the microstructures which will be produced.
However, there should also be an understanding that in normal cooling conditions although phase diagrams are generally fairly accurate, they are not always exact, and if diffusion is slow, there may be unexpected results.