BASF offers a new tool for simulating the application of injection-molded parts. BASF's Ultrasim simulation tool has been calculating the anisotropic mechanical behavior of fiber-filled plastics in injection-molded products. Nowadays, an additional fiber is added. Thermo-mechanical models of reinforced thermoplastics can now accurately predict temperature-induced deformations through simulation.
For customers, they can now identify possible defects during the actual development phase of the component and stop it before the production phase. The new module takes into account the complex thermomechanical material behavior, the effect of anisotropic fiber orientation, and the temperature distribution in the component. And change.
BASF simulation expert Andreas Wonisch stated that 'in the early stages of development, it is absolutely necessary to make detailed predictions on the final product. Especially for high-performance plastics used in automobiles and when exposed to large temperature differences, it is necessary to predict possible deformations.'
Fiber-filled plastics show very complex thermodynamic behavior. Under thermal loading, there may be unexpected deformations, depending on the local temperature and fiber orientation in the component. This is particularly important for electronic components with integrated switching elements. Highly sensitive Electronic products must not be subject to any damage. Accurate prediction of thermal deformation simulations saves development time and money.
Ultrasim simulation integration method
With direct measurements of materials and injection molded specimens, Ultrasim provides full characterization over the entire temperature range. Instead of simulating at a single temperature, temperature loads of -40 to 150°C can be calculated for a variety of applications. The integration of the process, the effect of fiber orientation in the component leads to anisotropic thermo-mechanical behavior.
Taking into account the rheological and thermal properties as well as the fiber orientation in the injection moulding process, a more comprehensive simulation must be carried out. This can identify early and avoid component failures. BASF has already used this technology in numerous applications, mainly in the automotive industry.
Automakers benefit from precision simulation
The problem of electric vehicles has brought enormous challenges to the automotive industry. New and innovative components for highly protective sensitive conductors, sensors or circuit boards are being developed. Although the temperature difference is large, it will not be deformed, thus protecting electronic equipment.
The new Ultrasim simulator has been successfully used in various projects such as control electronics. The thermal expansion simulation of the electronic control unit (ECU) housing shows very good consistency over the entire temperature range studied. Another use is for The plastic parts in headlights use a large amount of power electronics and have a cooling effect.