A 3-D finite element model combined with a volume tracking method is presented in this work to simulate the mold filling for casting processes. Especially, the analysis involves an adaptive grid method that is created under a criterion of element categorization of filling states and locations in the total region at each time step. By using an adaptive grid wherein the elements, finer than those in internal and external regions, are distributed at the surface region through refinement and coarsening procedures, a more efficient analysis of transient fluid flow with free surface is achieved. Adaptive grid based on VOF method is developed in tetrahedral element system. Through a 3-D analysis of the benchmark test of the casting process, the efficiency of the proposed adaptive grid method is verified. Developed FE code is applied to a typical industrial part of the casting process such as aluminum road wheel.