Numerical simulations were carried out in order to study the effect of various types of magnetic fields (steady vertical and horizontal magnetic fields and a combination of a steady field and DC electric current) on melt convection and interface shape during directional solidification of multi-crystalline silicon ingots. It is shown that steady magnetic fields can decrease the interface deflection. The electromagnetic field produced by the combination of DC current through the melt and a steady magnetic field can produce a stirring effect in the melt for a relatively small value of magnetic field and electrical current. Consequently, a more uniform distribution of dopants and impurities can be obtained in the silicon crystals. The melt rotation rate can be easily controlled by the intensity of the electrical current. (C) 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.