Risers are reservoirs of molten metal connected to castings that feed the casting during solidification to compensate for shrinkage. There are different types of risers located in various positions. Riser design considers factors like casting size/shape and material. Common riser design methods include Caine's method using freezing ratios, modulus method comparing modulus ratios, and shape factor method using charts based on shape factors and freezing ratios to determine required riser volumes. Risers are designed to solidify after castings to prevent shrinkage defects.