Computational issues in using a dual‐scale model of the segregation process in a binary alloy

Explains that segregation processes during the solidification of a binary alloy occur at two distinct length scales: on the microscopic length scale of the crystal interface, in the two‐phase mushy zone, segregation is controlled by solid state mass diffusion; and, on the macroscopic scale of the process, segregation is controlled by the convective transport of the molten metal. Concludes that developing models that can capture both these scales is a challenge. Introduces a bi‐level grid, and uses a macro grid on the scale of the process for the solution of equations describing macroscopic heat and mass transport. Details how each node point in the macro grid is associated with a micro grid on which equations describing the microscopic phenomena in the mushy region are solved. In this way, develops a dual‐scale model of segregation during the solidification of a binary alloy. On investigating the unidirectional solidification of a binary alloy, demonstrates that this dual‐scale model is able to capture both the macro and micro‐scales in a single numerical treatment.