Reactive Molding analysis technical information

This topic lists some useful technical details related to a Reactive Molding analysis.

• Mold filling is modeled by a generalized Hele-Shaw flow model for areas without reinforcement and by Darcy's Law for areas with fiber mat reinforcement.
• The numerical solution is based on a hybrid finite-element/finite-difference method for solving pressure, flow, and temperature, and a control-volume method to track moving melt fronts.
• Material viscosity is calculated as a function of temperature, conversion (extent of cure) and shear rate.
• The effect of induction time is included in flow calculations for rubbers and polyester resins.
• Special numerical methods are used to track the curing history of material at the melt front (fountain region).
• Curing kinetics are included in the calculations of both flow dynamics and temperature.