The Conversion at node result shows the actual material conversion (cure) at a node, calculated over the entire molding process (filling + curing phases).
This result is generated from analyses in which thermoset materials are used.
Note: For reactive compression-type molding processes, this result is plotted displayed on the deformed mesh as the default setting. With this default setting, if you click through the time steps you can watch the polymer as it is compressed into the part shape. To turn it off, so that all you see is the result on the part, right-click the result, select Properties and uncheck Display on deformed mesh.
Using this result
Premature conversion is a typical molding problem and occurs when the material solidifies (cures) in the mold cavity before the curing phase is complete. If the material pre-cures, you will see an acceleration of the melt, followed by strong hesitation, that is, viscosity suddenly decreases because material is too hot, then abruptly increases as material pre-cures.
If pre-cure occurs, increase the specified curing time until conversion throughout the entire part reaches the recommended Ejection conversion value for the material.
As a rule of thumb, thermosets should reach 80% conversion at the end of the process; however, for less expensive products, and depending on the material, 50% conversion, or less, may suffice.
Tip: Animate the Conversion at node result to check for late-curing areas.
Things to look for
- Pre-cure
- Increase cure time or decrease melt and/or mold temperature and re-run. Longer cure times impart more heat resistance and a longer life to the product.
- Flow rate
- If the flow rate is too high, the material will shear heat and conversion will have progressed too much when material enters the mold. This will cause the material to cure completely too early.
Note: For example, when reading this plot, Conversion at node at Time = 54 (s) is 0.42 means that the material has reached 42% conversion (cure) at the end of curing.
Note: Adjustments such as those above can only be made using a licensed Autodesk Simulation Moldflow Adviser or Autodesk Simulation Moldflow Insight product.