A variational approach to the problem of solidification of a metal semi-infinite thermally nonlinear body

Abstract

Based upon the Gauss differential variational principle and the method of optimal linearization, analytical approximate solutions are developed for the problem of solidification of a metal semi-infinite body whose coefficient of thermal conductivity depends linearly on the temperature. For the case of constant thermal properties, the approximate solution obtained by means of the Gauss variational principle agrees remarkable well with the exact solution obtained by Neumann. © 1989 Springer-Verlag.