Software suppliers agree that 3D simulation of injection mold filling, packing, cooling, shrinkage, and warpage is fairly mature.

In our August cover story, we incorrectly stated that Moldex 3D injection molding simulation software from CoreTech System Co. of Taiwan is represented exclusively in the U.S. by EPS Flowtek, Napierville, Ill.

New developments in 3D simulation can handle processes like gas assist, coinjection, and multi-shot molding and add features like birefringence prediction.

The newest generation of 3D simulation software takes aim at screw designs as well as hot-runner, mold, and part design.

Keep an eye on the increasing prominence of so-called “3D” mold analysis. Two vendors of simulation software from Europe and Asia think it’s the best solution for a big proportion of injection molded parts. Established U.S. suppliers aren’t so sure. In any case, the capabilities of both 3D and standard 2.5D simulation are expanding rapidly.