Using Injection Molding Simulation Software to Accurately Quote Rubber Anti‐Vibration Elements

• Published in: Macromolecular symposia. Vol. 414; no. 4
• Main Authors: Kadir, Demirak, Jaakko, Esala, Sinan, Deveci
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Weinheim Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.08.2025
• Subjects: anti‐vibration; Curing; Elastomers; High temperature; Injection; Injection molding; injection molding simulation; Mechanical properties; Molds; Noise control; Noise reduction; Process parameters; Prototyping; request for quotation (RFQ); Rubber; Simulation; Software; Vibration control
• ISSN: 1022-1360; 1521-3900
• DOI: 10.1002/masy.70099

ABSTRACT Elastomeric elements are used for vibration reduction and noise control in many industries. New part geometries are constantly designed and tailored to fulfil the specific mechanical requirements of each application, with much of the design performed virtually before any physical prototyping. It is advantageous for manufacturers of technical rubber articles to have the tools to accurately and efficiently calculate the costs of production of different geometries with different rubber compounds. This article discusses, through an example railway rubber bushing, how injection molding simulation software can help the quoting process and quickly respond to market demands, even with limited information. The main advantage of the simulation is the prediction of curing time with complex geometries at an early stage. High temperatures are needed to initiate the cross‐linking reaction of the rubber compound, which leads to the final good mechanical properties of the part. This process has a major impact on cost, as it requires a lot of energy and time in the injection press. With the help of software, a good estimation with good accuracy can be calculated by an experienced user in a short time. In this article, a step‐by‐step description is outlined for obtaining a curing time estimation using SIGMASOFT Virtual Molding simulation software. How to consider the part and mold geometry, process parameters, rubber compound, simulation setup, and results evaluation is discussed. With a curing time of 20 min in the mold, the curing degree reaches over 90% throughout the part, considering residual heat after demolding in ambient conditions. The difference in curing inside and through the cross‐section of the part can be visualized and investigated. The software is supplementing traditional curing time estimations with an insider view, especially for complex part geometries.