Casting of materials using microwave energy

Abstract

Microwave energy has been widely used in various material processing methods such as drying, sintering, joining, and cladding processes. However, its use has been very limited in the field of casting of materials. Microwave casting has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to reduced processing time and energy consumption, improved quality of castings, and reduced porosity over conventional casting methods. This chapter provides a brief idea about the fundamentals associated with the microwave casting process. Major research reported in this area have been highlighted. The role of different process parameters as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with the microwave casting process have been briefly discussed.