Design optimization of conformal cooling channels for injection molds: 3D transient heat transfer analysis

Abstract

This research aims to enhance the design of an injection mold in order to minimize ejection time and increase temperature uniformity by repositioning cooling channels. For 3D transient thermal simulations, the ANSYS finite element method (FEM) program was employed, while the MATLAB program was used for optimization. It was discovered that the method could be used successfully to optimize the design of Conformal Cooling Channels (CCCs) in injection molds. The objective function value of the optimized model represents a near 40% improvement in relation to the initial model. The combined parameterization, simulation, and optimization method has proven beneficial for enhancing the arrangement of channels in an injection machine mold. The methodology is generalizable. As such, it can be employed in any industrial applications involving injection molding machines, for the improvement of the quality of the manufactured part.