Third M.I.T. Conference on Computational Fluid and Solid Mechanics June 14–17, 2005  

Thermal optimisation of the squeeze-forming process using genetic algorithms

R. Ahmada,*, D.T. Gethinb, R.W. Lewisb, R.S. Ransingb, E.W. Postekb
aDepartment of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Kolej University Teknologi Tun Hussein Onn, PO Box 101, Parit Raja, Batu Pahat, Johor Darul, Takzim 86400, Malaysia bSchool of Engineering, University of Wales, Singleton Park, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK
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ABSTRACT
The paper deals with a thermal optimisation of the squeeze-forming process using a genetic algorithm. The objective function is evaluated using the finite element method for the transient thermal system in which the die cooling design is explored. The objective function is nonlinear with respect to coolant channel position. The objective is to achieve near simultaneous solidification in a cast part by varying the position of coolant channels in the die. This shape optimization is done automatically by integrating finite element analysis with remeshing and a genetic algorithm program. The achievement of a design that achieves near simultaneous solidification is demonstrated.

Keywords:  Squeeze forming process; Nonlinear optimisation; Genetic algorithms; Finite element method; Remeshing; Die cooling design
* Corresponding author. Tel.: +44 7841 455038; Fax: +44 1792 295903; E-mail: egahmedr@swansea.ac.uk