Casting is one of the most important processes in materials technology. In this unique book, each step in the casting and solidification process is described and models are set up, which in many cases can be approximated by simplified analytical expressions. All casting methods are featured, including component casting, ingot casting and continuous casting.

Applications of the results are given in numerous worked examples within the text. Conclusions on how to avoid cracks, solidification pores, slag inclusions and other defects of the castings, can be drawn from the theoretical models. These conclusions are based on research results, which together give an idea of the development in the manufacture of castings. Most chapters conclude with a number of exercises, answers to which are given at the end of the book. The accompanying 'Guide to Exercises', provides the complete solutions to each of the exercises.

Dr Hasse Fredriksson is professor in Casting of Metals at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, Sweden. He is the leader of a very active research group since more than three decades. Dr Fredriksson is internationally known. He is author or co-author to more than 200 scientific papers. He has organized many Summer schools and international conferences in his field, the last one in June 2005.

Dr Ulla Åkerlind is a physicist (research field molecular physics) with long experience of undergraduate teaching at the Department of Physics at the University of Stockholm. She has co-operated in a set of text books in basic physics for the Swedish 'gymnasium' and produced learning aids for the undergraduate university level in physics.