Rapid Tooling für Umformwerkzeuge

Abstract

Selective laser sintering allows more flexibility and a higher automation level in tool engineering. One of the main advantages of this method is the production of complex geometries. The use of injection moulds and tool inserts with complex and conformal cooling channels, which are produced by SLS, increase the productivity and quality of the parts. Another application is the construction of forming tools. A new lubrication concept for complex deep drawing is investigated at the University of Applied Sciences in Wels, Austria. The layered structure of deep drawing tools with integrated lubrication channels enables the direct lubrication of highly stressed areas on deep drawing dies. Furthermore, the wear resistance of forging tools by generating a ceramic-metal mixture in near-surface tool areas is investigated. The reduction of high thermal stresses in generated forging dies is also analysed. For this reason the wear-critical areas are cooled by cooling channels. As a result the annealing temperature of the generated material is not exceeded. The advantage of conformal cooling can also be used for press hardening tools. At the University of Applied Sciences in Wels, these tools are manufactured and tested.