3. Use of numerical calculation techniques

To anticipate these problems and optimize productivity right from the mold design stage, it is necessary to know the flow characteristics of the plastic material in the feeder and in the cavities. The transient nature of flow and heat transfer, and the generally three-dimensional geometry of cavities, make rheological calculations complex. In addition, shear on the one hand, and cooling in contact with the cavity on the other, modify the material's characteristics during filling.

Rheological and thermal calculation software (e.g. Simpoe-Mold, Cadmould® or Modflow, Moldex 3D, etc.) provide good approximations of filling dynamics. The reliability of results depends on cavity meshing, modeling of plastic characteristics (rheological behavior law) and boundary conditions, particularly thermal, which requires a thorough understanding of process data (temperature, flow...