Selecting a similar material

Material properties have a significant impact on an analysis, but sometimes the material you want to use is not available in the public Autodesk Moldflow database. When this happens, there are alternative methods of obtaining suitable material parameters for use in an analysis.

The following alternative methods of sourcing a similar material are available:

• Material testing at a third-party laboratory

  Autodesk works with several third-party laboratories that supply quality material data for Moldflow simulations. Grades can either be tested confidentially or for inclusion in the public material database.

  For more information on working with third-party laboratories, email mplmoldflow@autodesk.com.

• Material data fitting

  If you can provide raw material data from your laboratory or material manufacturer:

  • Non-confidential data fitting is performed free for inclusion in the public material database.

  • Confidential data fitting can typically be conducted by third-party laboratories for a fee.

  • Use the free Autodesk Moldflow Data Fitting software to fit the data and generate the udb file yourself.

    For more information, email datafittingmoldflow@autodesk.com.

• Material supplier's recommendation

  Suppliers are familiar with the different materials in a material family so they can recommend suitable alternatives.

• Similar materials on a public database

  You can select a similar material based on the following:

  • Polymer family

  • Trade name

  • Filler

  • Filler percentage

    Note:

    • The accuracy of the analysis results will be affected if you choose this option. The severity of the effect will depend on how similar the material properties that you select are to the actual resin that is used.
    • Color properties and other additives can affect the propertis of the material.
    • Autodesk Moldflow technical support will not recommend a material to substitute.

    Compare the following parameters where possible:

    • Melt mass-flow rate
    • Viscosity index
    • Viscosity curve sweeps
    • pvT curves if using packing analysis
    • Solid density
    • Melt density
    • Transition temperature
    • Mechanical properties if using Warp analysis (E, v, G, CTE)
    • Energy usage indicator
    • Resin identification code
    • Durometer hardness if comparing a TPE/TPO or rubber-like material