Ultrasim: simulation now for elastomers

Basf expands the application range of its simulation tool Ultrasim: as of now, the CAE tool also calculates component concepts based on elastomers, especially Elastollan, Basf’s thermoplastic polyurethane. The simulation covers the entire process chain from initial processing to the mechanical properties of the final product. Among the special features of the simulation with Ultrasim are options to simulate both the initial load and cyclic loads of a component. The calculation of component concepts based on elastomers with Ultrasim is now available.

The property profile of elastomers typically includes stress softening (Mullins effect) under cyclic loading. For reliable simulation results, the consideration of this material behaviour is indispensable. Ultrasim allows the precise description of stress softening during a cyclic course of loading.

However, the simulation usually starts in the stage of initial processing, delivering an exact forecast of the warpage behavior during injection molding, considering the complex visco-elastic behavior of the material. The simulation with Ultrasim is now available for several Elastollan grades. Further grades are currently in the characterization process.

“The simulation tool Ultrasim provides our customers with quick and reliable information about how Basf materials behave in their planned components, during production as well as at a later stage during service life. Customers who apply Ultrasim instead of constructing prototypes or carrying out tests can significantly shorten their development times. This simulation support is now also available for Elastollan”, said Achim Besser, Team Leader Material Modelling in Basf’s Performance Materials division. Basf is the first material producer offering such wide-ranging simulation services in the TPU sector.

Elastollan is used in automotive parts such as strain relief sleeves on electric connectors, spring isolators at the axles, folding bellows and end stops for shock absorbers. In interior parts, door handles and gear knobs are produced with TPU. Beyond that, Elastollan is frequently employed in the consumer goods sector: application examples include ski boots, shoe soles and cable sheathings.