Smart Molding International 2-2023

47 www.smart-molding.com simulation & software A t the Moulding Expo 2023 in Stuttgart (June 13-16, 2023), SIGMA Engineering GmbH pre- sented insights into mold simulation and the simulative design of tempering systems using SIGMASOFT®. Simulation is critical to project success in plastics processing, including tooling, where ge- ometries, gating position, and process design can already be optimized. /H&B/ ELECTRONIC relies on SIGMASOFT® for the design and dimensioning of temperature control channels. Cooling is critical to the quality of thermoplastic components. Tempera- ture differences lead to different cooling rates and create residual stresses and warpage in the finished component. This becomes problematic when there are differences in wall thickness within the component, as the cooling requirements are highly variablelocally. Conformal cooling, meanwhile, is an established concept in tooling that is increasingly being used. Simulation allows the cost of conformal cooling to be evaluated in advance against the advantages of the conventional concept (improved component quality, shorter cycle times, etc.). 3D printing has revolutionized the possibilities for component production. It is now possible to produce completely arbitrary channels (regardless of feasibility using milling, drilling, assembly, and sealing). /H&B/ ELECTRONIC and SIGMASOFT® have carefully examined the simulation- based design of a novel temperature control systemmade using 3D printing. The results will be shown at both exhibitors’ stands at the trade fair. «Analysis and fluidic design of cooling channels are just one of dozens of successful applications of SIGMASOFT®,» explained Timo Gebauer, CTO of SIGMA. «What they all have in common is the ability to understand what is happening before money and time are invested. This was an exciting project where we were able to accompany this successful innovation.» Jan Bayerbach, Head of Development & Construction at /H&B/ ELECTRONIC, added: «We have been relying on SIGMASOFT® for many years to develop and optimize our products before they are evenmanufactured. The good correlationbetween simulation and reality has always impressed us. We are particularly proud of themold inserts we developed using 3D printing.» About SIGMA Since 1998, SIGMA Engineering GmbH has been driving the development of the injection molding process with its simulation solution SIGMASOFT® Virtual Molding. This virtual injection molding machine enables the optimization and development of polymer components and molds as well as the mapping of the entire production process. The SIGMASOFT® Virtual Molding technology combines the parts 3D geometries with its tooling and temperature control system and integrates the parameters of the production process. This ensures a cost- efficient and resource-saving production as well as high-performance products - from the first shot. SIGMA www.sigmasoft.de Optimized mold tempering: Simulation provides insight and reliable improvement At the Moulding Expo, SIGMA Engineering presents the simulation-based design of tempering systems using SIGMASOFT®. Mold temperature control on the left using conformal cooling, on the right using conventional cooling (all pictures: SIGMA) Temperature distribution just before demolding, with conformal cooling from 3D printing on the left (only visible halfway trough), and conventional cooling on the right