To run a conformal cooling analysis, the part, conformal cooling channel, and mold must be suitably modeled.
The following list is an overview of the steps required.
- Import a CAD representation of the part model and mesh it as either Solid 3D or Dual Domain.
- Select an analysis sequence that includes Cool (FEM). The Study tree is automatically updated to include the steps required to complete this type of analysis.
- Select the plastic material to be used for the part.
- Model the feed system. The minimum requirement is that a single injection location is defined.
- Model any beam element cooling systems that are included in the design.
- Add the conformal cooling channel/s.
- Set both the coolant inlet, and the coolant outlet for the conformal cooling channel.
- Model the mold block.
Note: If importing the mold block, ensure the following steps have been done prior to import.
- The block includes voids where the part and any channel or feed elements are located. This can be done within Autodesk Fusion.
- Simplify the mold block by eliminating any slides, bolts etc. This is best done within the CAD package and will streamline the creation of the mold mesh.
- Create the 3D channel mesh.
- Create the 3D mold mesh. This is a two step process.
- Create a surface mesh of the mold.
- Create the mesh for the volume of the mold.
- Define any required process settings.
- Run the analysis.