This paper presents a two-step methodology for the bi-objective optimization design of heterogeneous injection mold cooling systems to achieve simultaneously fast and uniform cooling. During the first step, a single fundamental mold material selected from the material database is assumed, optimal cooling channels size, location, and coolant flow rate are obtained through a gradient-based optimization method. Based on the optimal results from the first step, the second step further reduces cooling time and increases temperature distribution uniformity at ejection by finding sensitive areas and distributing both fundamental and secondary materials in these areas through a genetic algorithm. A Finite Element Method with the Jacobi Conjugate Gradient scheme is utilized to perform the cyclic and transient cooling simulation. Two illustrations for the optimal methodology are provided.

Issue Section:
Technical Papers
Keywords:
melt spinning, polymer melts, cooling, design engineering, optimisation, finite element analysis, Mold Cooling, Injection Molding, Cooling Channel, Thermal Diffusivity, Rapid Prototyping, Cooling Time, Temperature Distribution Uniformity, Transient State, Steady State, Finite Element Method, Multi-Objective, Heterogeneous, Optimization, GA (Genetic Algorithm)
Topics:
Cooling, Cooling systems, Design, Optimization, Finite element methods, Genetic algorithms, Temperature distribution, Transients (Dynamics)
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