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On-Line User Help Manual | HotFlo! | |
DC-CALC is a multi purpose software tool to help you design better Die Casting dies in a fraction of the time you are probably spending now.
It is based on the principle that all the design parameters in a Die Casting die are inter-related and therefore should be linked so that any data changes will automatically update all related parameters. For example, the weight of the part and the weight of the sprue, runners and overflows will all have an effect on the thermal heat load in the die, the product cost and the die cavity filling time. With DC-CALC you can change the weight of the part for example, and it will automatically and immediately recalculate all the other effected parameters.
Ideally, you should start a new DC-CALC file every time you quote on a new job, or evaluate a new product. You don't have to fill in all the data fields on every page to start with. However, completing the "Feasibility Analysis" page will ensure that the basic parameters of the machine-die combination are established and reviewed.
On another page is a basic product cost calculator in which you can enter data from your corporate costing system and use to calculate the cost of the part.
If you do get the job, you can then re-open the DC-CALC file for the part and use it to calculate the full detailed gate and runner dimensions. An output sheet can be given to the die designer and toolmaker for detailed drafting and tool manufacture.
This "Runners" module is one of the most useful features of DC-CALC because it can calculate all the major gate, runner and sprue parameters in a very short time. In most cases this data is all you need to enable the drawing of the metal feed system to be completed. However, you can also use it as input data for sophisticated CAD systems such as CAST-FLOW, Magma and the like.
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The other modules in DC-CALC : -
can all be used as required. Some dies will benefit from their application, others may not require such a detailed analysis. |
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A big advantage of DC-CALC is that it is provided in an EXCEL* spreadsheet format, which is familiar to most people. Open up a copy of DC-CALC and take a look.
The cells marked with a light yellow background are those in which you can enter data.
Each module of design calculations is on a separate worksheet which you will see on the "Tabs" at the bottom of the page, named :-
| Feasibility | Runners | Production | Lock-Up | Thermal | Venting | Data |
If you cannot see all these tabs on the page at the one time, either click on the last "Tab" or use the scrolling arrows at the bottom of the page.
When you first start using DC-CALC you will need help with interpretation of the various input and output data.
All this detailed information has been uploaded to this website so users always have the latest version available to them at the click of a button.
If you connect your computer to the Internet when you open your DC-CALC file, you can access these help pages directly from the hyperlinks embedded in the DC-CALC worksheets.
As you gain experience, you will need this facility less, and can access the data by occasionally logging on.
Alternatively, you can print out the relevent webpages to create your own hard copy.
* EXCEL is a tradename of Microsoft Corporation.
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