In evaluating a component design, the casting engineer looks for isolated thick sections which could be "hot spots" where shrinkage porosity or "hot tears" might form.

• As metal in thin sections solidifies first, the thicker section will be isolated from the molten metal feed and shrinkage porosity can form in the thick section .
• The thin connecting section into the thicker section should be "padded" to improve the thermal connection and metal flow into the "hot spot".

Directional Solidification

The casting engineer studies the design to see if the thermal gradients in the piece will promote directional solidification. Review the design, looking for flat sections that can be lightened and long thin ribs that need to be tapered to promote directional solidification

• Large flat sections are difficult to feed and to develop good directional solidification. Adding taper along a rib or section from the cold region to the hot region promotes directional solidification and prevents shrinkage pores.

Generic Example of Padding and Taper

A review of the ice cleat  shows that there are no obvious "hot spots" or  extended thin sections where padding or tapers are required.