Huntsman develops new sole design optimisation system
Huntsman Polyurethanes, the Institute for Plastics Processing (IKV) and Simcon have developed a new, user-friendly software system which simulates the injection moulding of smartLite materials, allowing specialized moulders to finalise their sole and mould designs before investing in tooling, trials or machine modifications.
Developed by Huntsman, the system reduces prototyping time, improves efficiency and accelerates the market introduction of new soling styles.
The new software, devised and owned by Huntsman, and powered by Simcon’s Cadmould programme, allows moulders to incorporate interesting design features, predict the filling pattern, position the injection points correctly and achieve soles with the required final properties at the lowest possible density. It can also help to prevent unsightly marks caused by air traps or, in the case of two injection points, an unfavourable location of weld lines.
By testing several critical factors and making adjustments to the tooling or part before cutting in metal, the simulation software helps smartLite customers cut costs and reduce time to market – important aspects for innovative moulders in the fast-moving footwear business.
The package covers all the measurements and model fittings needed for accurate simulations of the mould filling behaviour of smartLite materials, under production conditions. The new tool simulates the mould to include the filling pattern, injection pressure, density distribution and other critical factors for optimising a given part of, or the process itself.
Huntsman is a global manufacturer and marketer of commodity and differentiated chemicals. Its operating companies manufacture basic products for a variety of global industries including chemicals, plastics, automotive, aviation, footwear, paints and coatings, construction, technology, agriculture, health care, textiles, detergent, personal care, furniture, appliances and packaging.
