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Texture Analysis and Finite Element Modeling of Operational Stresses in Ceramic Injection Molding Components for High‐Pressure Pumps
Author(s) -
Wenzelburger Martin,
Fischer Ralph,
Gadow Rainer
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
international journal of applied ceramic technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.4
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1744-7402
pISSN - 1546-542X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1744-7402.2005.02029.x
Subject(s) - materials science , ceramic , finite element method , composite material , texture (cosmology) , stress (linguistics) , molding (decorative) , thermoplastic , anisotropy , optics , structural engineering , computer science , linguistics , philosophy , image (mathematics) , artificial intelligence , engineering , physics
Texturization of microstructures in ceramic components during injection of thermoplastic feedstocks into the mold is a well‐known problem in ceramic injection molding (CIM) technology. The influences of textures on the mechanical properties of components with anisotropic properties, which depend on crystallite structure and orientation, usually involve weakening of the structure by the formation of separation planes and accumulation of stresses, which can lead to crack initiation and subcritical failure. A light optical texture analysis technique was developed for the analysis of thin section preparations from optically anisotropic ceramic materials. An internal Al 2 O 3 gear rim for high‐pressure gear pumps that is manufactured by CIM was chosen for the evaluation of this technique. Components were produced from thermoplastic ceramic feedstocks with different rheological behavior. Thin sections were prepared from the sintered parts. The texture was analyzed by polarized transmission light microscopy of the thin sections and colorimetric analysis of the crystal orientation. For the evaluation of the component properties, function, and lifetime, operating tests on a test bench were carried out as well as finite element (FE) simulation of the stress distribution in the components under operational load with regard to the texturization. The results were used for the localization of stress gradients and their comparison and correlation to the texturization. The functionality of this texture analysis method was proved by the tests, and it is expected to be a convenient novel method for the analysis and optimization of the parameters in CIM processes and the design of injection gate and mold.