Abstract

This paper describes the Computer Aided Design (CAD) of dies for direct hot extrusion of structural shapes such as Z's and U's from aluminum alloys. A simple analysis of the direct extrusion process is developed and used to formulate a disign procedure for determining the optimal shape of the extrusion dies. A computer software system has been developed to design flat-faced dies for non-lubricated hot extrusion process. This software is a system of computer programs which are written to logical design procedure. Computer programs are based on empirical and analytical relationships, as well as on established knowledge based system. In the interactive mode of operation, the reaults at various tages of the design process are plotted on a screen. At any stage, the designer can interact with the computer to change or modify the design, based on his experience. The output from the program is (a) the design of the flat-faced die, (b) information on extrusion load, reduction ratio, and other process variables, etc. The implementation of this CAD system is expected to (a) provide scientific basis and rationalize the die design procedure, (b) optimize extrusion variables to maximize yield and production rate, (c) improve utilization of existing press capacity, etc.

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