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High Pressure Die Casting Optimization of a Connecting Rod

A multi-objective engineering simulation study of the connecting rods manufacturing process

<p>The finished product: a connecting rod for the automotive industry produced using optimized high pressure die casting</p>

The finished product: a connecting rod for the automotive industry produced using optimized high pressure die casting

Abstract

Connecting rods connect the pistons to the crank shaft in automotive engines and are vital components of the engine. Connecting rods are traditionally produced in ferrous metals by forging or die casting.

The Abor foundry, long time suppliers of connecting rods to the automotive industry, engaged EnginSoft to carry out a multi-objective engineering simulation study of the connecting rods manufacturing process in aluminum (EN AB46100 or AlSi11Cu2(Fe))  using the high pressure die casting method of production.

The study results were implemented to produce a lower cost connecting rod that maintains the same high-quality standards required by their customer.

Why use high pressure die casting and the scope of the Multi-Objective Optimization

Simply put, Abor was looking for a more cost effective method such as high pressure die casting to produce these rods while:

  • maintaining optimal dimensions for the rods so as to guarantee their intended life cycle and excellent resistance under fatigue loads
  • finding an optimal production method that could guarantee the required mechanical properties

The scope was to produce an optimized die design and setup together with a study of the die’s thermal behavior using multi-objective optimization methods and virtual prototyping.

For the fluid dynamics part of the study, several gating system configurations and the flux curve were simulated. The geometrical and process variables used were derived from the preliminary analysis of a die that was already in production. The shape and sections of the gating system configuration were selected to guarantee the optimal temperature and velocity of the fluid during the filling phase, with the aim of eliminating all gas porosity in the injection/filling phase.

Given the objectives, the experimental design and the numerical algorithm allowed Abor to produce the best die casting solution for the rods in the shortest time possible with huge production costs savings whilst still meeting with the high quality expectations of the customer.

At EnginSoft we have a team of engineers dedicated to die casting simulation projects. Our customers hail from a broad range of industries including the automotive industry. Our engineers are very knowledgeable about the engineering simulation products they use and will help you select the best products for your specific needs. So don't hesitate to contact us immediately and tell us how we can help you.

 
High Pressure Die Casting Optimization of a Connecting Rod

Temperature contours during the filling of the optimized die configuration

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Magma

Simulation and virtual optimization of casting processes

MAGMASOFT® is the comprehensive and effective optimization tool for improving metalcasting quality, optimizing process conditions and reducing production costs.

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