Partnership Augments LSR Molding Simulation

Sigmasoft Virtual Molding will apply silicone material data from Momentive to improve LSR injection molding simulation. Photo Credit: Sigmasoft 

In an agreement between a provider of liquid silicone rubber (LSR) injection molding simulation and one of the top manufacturers of silicone and silicone derivatives, Sigma Engineering GmbH and Momentive Performance Materials are collaborating on an effort to use more precise material data to create more accurate simulation of LSR injection molding.

The companies note that the more precise the material data and understanding of the material, the better the predictions made by the simulation, adding that applying standardized laboratory values for the material properties can’t fully describe the complex behavior of components (watch “Benefits of Simulation to the Mold Builder, Molder”).

The companies say data from real injection molding processing is needed to refine and calibrate the material data and improve the reliability of the simulation results. Since 1998, Sigma Engineering has offered its simulation software, Sigmasoft Virtual Molding, to the plastics processing sector. The program combines a part’s 3D geometry with its tooling and temperature control system, while also integrating the parameters of the production process for more accurate simulations. Sigmasoft Virtual Molding has multiple process-specific models including 3D simulation of LSR molding.