Topology optimization for the design of additively manufactured hot stamping tools

Abstract

Abstract. The hot stamping process makes it possible to obtain complex-shaped parts with high mechanical properties. The hot stamping production rate is driven by the cooling system inside the tool. Improving the efficiency of the cooling system is a key factor as it reduces part production time and thus lower the cost. But an optimized cooling system requires complex internal geometries. That is why the development of additive manufacturing (AM) opens up new and good prospects for designing and making hot stamping tools with high cooling efficiency. This research proposes a two-step topology optimization procedure for hot stamping tools’ design. In the first step, the fluid/thermal topology optimization is used to find the best design for the cooling system. As the printing time and cost for the additively manufactured tool depend on the amount of material used, the second step focuses on removing unnecessary materials in hot stamping tools.