The application of the Finite Element Method analysis in the process of designing the punching die for belt perforation

• Published in: IOP conference series. Materials Science and Engineering Vol. 776; no. 1; pp. 12057 - 12067
• Main Authors: Wojtkowiak, D, Talaśka, K, Fierek, A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Bristol IOP Publishing 01.02.2020
• Subjects: Belt conveyors; Finite element analysis; Finite element method; Perforation; Punching; Rigidity; Tool wear; Topology optimization
• ISSN: 1757-8981; 1757-899X
• DOI: 10.1088/1757-899X/776/1/012057

The Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis has improved the process of designing modern machines, especially when the effective construction solution has to be found. In the paper authors have presented the application of this type of analysis based on the example of the construction of the punching die for belt perforation. For these machines the cooperation of the piercing punch and the die is crucial. Because of this, the analysis of the flexural rigidity of the head block and the punch plate provides useful information, which can be used to maintain proper alignment between the punch and the die during the perforation process. It may have a positive effect on the tool wear and the punching performance. Additionally, by using the topology optimization the mass of the punching die can be greatly reduced while maintaining enough rigidity. This effect is desired in automated machines for belt perforation, in which the punching die has to move with high velocities in order to create a designed pattern on the perforated belt with satisfying efficiency. In the presented research authors focused on determining the influence of the constructional parameters of the punching die on the deflection of the head-punch block. The obtained results and the presented methodology of performing the FEM analysis of such machines will help to improve their design process and find the effective construction solution.