Cooling Analysis
Average Part Temperature - The average plastic temperature across the whole element thickness, calculated at the end of cooling time. This profile is based on the average mold surface temperatures for the cycle. This result can be used to check that the polymer temperature is below the ejection temperature for the material at the end of cooling, so that the part can be successfully ejected.
Bottom Temperature – The average temperature of the plastic/mold interface at the bottom side of the element, during the cycle.
Coolant Temperature – An acceptable temperature rise is between 3-5 °F. This result can be used to identify which channels should be looped together.
Flow Rate (coolant) - This result should be used to check that the sum of the coolant flow rates in each circuit is less than the coolant pump capacity. Used in conjunction with the Reynolds Number result, it helps to determine if turbulent flow can be achieved.
Mesh Orientation – Each finite element used to create the simulation model has a top and bottom side, indicated by the colors blue and red, respectively. The model is setup such that all topsides are pointing toward the cavity side, and all bottom sides are pointing toward the core side. This aids in interpreting cooling results.
Time to Freeze - The time for each area to freeze to ejection temperature, measured from the start of the cycle. Helps to identify areas where ejector pins may or may not be placed to obtain faster cycle time.
Top Temperature – The average temperature of the plastic/mold interface at the topside of the element, during the cycle.
Temperature Difference - The difference of the averages in temperature between the top and bottom sides (top minus bottom) of the element during the cycle.
Reynolds Number - A measure of the ratio of inertial forces to viscous forces in a flowing fluid. A value above 4000 should be used for lines actively involved in cooling. This ensures turbulent flow, and thus better heat transfer.
