Optimizing extrusion processes: The impact of CFD on plastics engineering
Author:
Gözde Akman
Date:
Nov 2, 2024
Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has evolved into a crucial tool in plastics engineering, especially when it comes to precisely simulating and improving extrusion processes. Extrusion is a central process in plastic processing and is used across numerous industries, from automotive to packaging to construction. By strategically utilizing CFD, companies can better understand and optimize the physical and thermal phenomena in their extrusion processes. This leads to higher quality and efficiency in production.
"StrömungsRaum® is highly automated, which means there is no need for specialized calculation and CFD knowledge. In fact, the 3D model is calculated and created within the tool using parameters, and reporting is so fully automated that it results in a well-readable report."
- Mikael Tekneyan | Team Leader Research & Development of digital products at NETZSCH
The use of CFD in plastics engineering offers numerous advantages. One main advantage is the level of detail provided by CFD simulations. In extrusion processes, the flow of plastic material through the extruder plays a decisive role in the final product. With CFD, companies can analyze the flow of material, temperature distribution, and pressure conditions in detail. At IANUS Simulation GmbH, we offer customized CFD solutions that enable our clients to accurately simulate material flow and temperature profiles, and thereby specifically optimize process parameters.
Another advantage of CFD in plastics technology lies in the ability to adjust process parameters. Traditionally, extrusion processes rely on empirical values and trial and error. However, by using CFD analyses, the optimal parameters for temperature, pressure, and material distribution can be determined in advance. This allows companies with our CFD analyses at IANUS to adapt their processes more quickly and cost-effectively, significantly reducing reject rates, which greatly enhances production efficiency.
The scalability and flexibility of CFD technology are additional crucial factors. Especially when developing new extrusion products, it is important to be able to respond quickly to new demands. With the help of CFD simulations, companies in plastics engineering can accelerate their development processes and achieve their "time-to-market" goals faster. IANUS Simulation GmbH supports this with flexible, scalable simulation solutions tailored to the specific needs of our clients in plastics engineering.
Besides the optimization of existing processes, CFD also enables the prediction and avoidance of problems in the production process. Through detailed simulation of the flow and heating of the material, potential sources of error can be identified and avoided at an early stage. This reduces downtime and saves costs. At IANUS, we offer our clients customized simulation solutions that help improve the reliability of production processes and identify quality defects in advance.
An additional benefit of CFD-supported process optimization is sustainability. Targeted control and optimization of extrusion parameters lead to lower material consumption and reduce energy requirements. This is not only economically but also ecologically sensible. IANUS supports companies in the plastics engineering sector in developing more sustainable processes that enhance their efficiency while conserving the environment.
Let us optimize your extrusion processes!
The advantages of CFD-supported optimizations in plastics engineering are clear: detailed analysis of material flow, precise adjustments of parameters, and improved product quality. IANUS Simulation GmbH offers comprehensive CFD solutions that are specifically tailored to the requirements of extrusion technology. If you want to learn how our CFD expertise can optimize your extrusion processes, schedule a non-binding consultation now. Our team looks forward to finding the best simulation solutions for your challenges and taking your production to a new level.