Computer simulation of thermoforming process and its verification using a rapid tooling mould

Abstract

The results of computer simulation of thermoforming process made using ANSYS Polyflow software are presented in this paper. The analysis of the wall thickness distribution across an U-shaped thermoformed product manufactured using a positive mould was made. The simulation results were verified using a mould manufactured in a 3D printing process which was Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) and a poly(ethylene terephthalate) formed sheet. It was proven that the computer simulation and a tool made with a Rapid Tooling technology can be useful for predicting the quality of a thermoformed part, particularly to find the problems with thin-walled areas.