SIMULATION BASED OPTIMIZATION OF INDIRECT ALUMINUM EXTRUSION PROCESS PARAMETERS

摘要

The objective of this paper is to optimize the principal extrusion variables by means of manufacturing simulation of the extrusion model. The finite element analysis of the extrusion model does not consider the manufacturing process in its modeling. Therefore, the process parameters obtained through such an analysis remains highly theoretical in that these parameters differ from the actual extrusion process parameters. Additionally, due to the nature of the extrusion process, it is often quite difficult to determine the cause of an extrusion problem and find its proper solution, particularly if it must be done quickly. The manufacturing simulation of the extrusion process prior to plant execution helps to make the actual extrusion operation more efficient because more realistic parameters may be obtained through the simulation. Additionally, troubleshooting the process becomes simpler. In this paper, we have developed the simulation model of a real extrusion plant using IGRIP. The model of the plant is simulated in IGRIP using the Graphical Simulation Language (GSL). The dynamics of the plant is also incorporated in the simulation model. Through simulation, optimized values of variables that affect the extrusion process are obtained.