Computer modeling of the gas assisted injection molding process - computer simulations vs. practice

Abstract

Modern computer programs for simulation of polymer processing allow to conduct numerical calculations on the movement of the injected material, not only in the classical injection molding process. It is possible to simulate non-standard injection methods, e.g. gas assisted injection process. The paper presents the results of computer simulations and real gas-assisted injection. These results were compared and the compliance of numerical calculations with the results of practical tests was assessed. It has been shown that advanced algorithms of computer simulation programs enable modeling of phenomena specific to the injection method under consideration. The ability to conduct simulations of polymer processing processes (including gas-assisted injection) allows to shorten the time of implementation of molds for production, eliminate construction errors and expanding knowledge about the course of the actual process. The work focuses on the gas-assisted injection process by filling the forming cavity entirely in the melt filling phase. Particular attention was paid to the gas channel formation process and the parameters that determine its shape and dimensions.