Gerresheimer now uses new simulation software in glass production that ensures even glass distribution. This improves strength and reduces waste.
Ecodesign means that sustainability aspects are included in the development of a product right from the start. At Gerresheimer, for example, a Glass simulation to achieve perfect, even glass distribution. It can improve strength and contribute to weight reduction and the avoidance of rejects.
Simulation software shortens development time
The costs incurred by Gerresheimer The innovative simulation software used by the company adjusts the production parameters on the basis of CFD (computational fluid dynamics). This enables Potential for improvement identified at an early stage and the development time can be shortened.
„The production of the glass container begins with the design of the mould. The more precisely the mould is designed and manufactured, the better its quality in terms of glass distribution, visual appearance, strength and weight.“ Philipp Amrhein, Manager New Product Development & Mould Design at Gerresheimer in Lohr
The weight of bottles, flacons and jars plays a particularly important role in energy consumption and therefore in both production and transport logistics. Taking into account all chemical and physical glass parameters optimising the shaping production process and the design of the moulds with the help of digital computer simulation.
The mould cooling system is also optimally designed for the respective process using CFD simulation. This leads to Stress reduction in the glass container and thus to an effectively improved quality of the entire production process, for example by avoiding high reject rates
Reduction in development time of up to 70 per cent
What used to lead to a stable production process through lengthy, empirical trials is now done at the touch of a button, so to speak, by the Use of computer-based simulation software in just a few minutes. The results are then transferred directly to the three-dimensional CAD software for mould design via interfaces, and the mould processing machines immediately create the mould tools from them. It is also pleasing that the simulation software development time reduced by up to 70 per cent.
Based on the well-known finite element analysis, also known as the FEA method, the stresses resulting from the product requirements on the glass containers are calculated. Based on these results Weak points avoided even before the finished article drawings of the product become. In the meantime, computer-aided simulation of the moulding process and product requirements has become an integral part of daily mould design. As part of Gerresheimer's continuous improvement process, it is indispensable.
Source: Gerresheimer
