A statistical ensemble cellular automaton microstructure model for primary recrystallization

A new model for the simulation of primary recrystallization is presented. The model is based on the cellular automaton method but departs from the classical 'representative volume element' (RVE) approach by considering a microstructure as a statistical ensemble of numerous solitary units. Individually these are significantly smaller than an RVE and can be simulated independently on a parallel computer. The model showed excellent accuracy compared to RVE simulations. The substantial reduction of the time-to-solution achieved by the model makes parametric studies practical and close to real-time recrystallization simulations in industrial processing lines possible. (C) 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.