| In die-casting processes, molten metal is injected into a die cavity where it solidifies quickly. Proper die temperature control yields a high casting production rate and quality parts. Die temperature is dependent on a number of process variables. It has been found that changes in flow rates of cooling water inside the die affect die temperature; however, very limited research work has been done in this area. In this study, a die casting process simulator has been built in the laboratory. A PC-based data acquisition system (DAS) has been designed, established, and implemented, which is able to acquire, record, and plot temperature and flow rate signals during the die casting process. Experiments have been designed and conducted with the laboratory simulator to assess the heat transfer performance of the die using varying cooling water flow rates with a fixed waterline diameter. In addition to the analysis of experimental data, and process observations, the performance of an air-operated pump, which serves as a control actuator, has been evaluated with consideration of its ability to adjust water flow rates. Finally, the potential for industrial application of the DAS is investigated. |
