I have written in a prior post about the key factors necessary in a plastics injection molding optimization analyst  Now, I would like to discuss the importance of a skillfully assembled simulation report  Jennifer Schmidt spoke of the key ingredients of a trustworthy injection molding simulation report in her talk at the Plastics Technology Molding 2021 conference In this brief, I will discuss the valuable information she provided and add additional feedback  If you want a successful outcome for your tool, these key components are essential to consider

1Software

• What version is being used and is the software up to date? Look for signs that the analyst is using an older version of software which will alter the results on the report, and ultimately the floor results

Typically, the output file(s) of the software contain the release version of the software  It might not be the absolute latest release of the software, but is should be a proven release which is typically a year old or less

2 Type of Mesh used: Consider the type of mesh that used for the part and the runner

• Is the mesh type appropriate for the part geometry?
• Is it precise enough in critical areas to capture important details?
• Is the correct technology being used for the part geometry/runner combination, ie midplane, Dual-Domain, 3D or a specialty mesh used?
• Will the report allow access to display the mesh?
• Does the filling animation, weld lines and sink marks reveal insights into the mesh quality?

Consider: Simulations of the same part with the same material and same mesh density, but different mesh types for the part and runner, may produce different results for pressure at the fill-to-pack switchover point, which could make quite a difference in what occurs in an actual molding environment

There are many factors to consider and only a seasoned user with the proper education in the software will be able to make these determinations in order to provide the best analytical outcome

3 Material Data: An accurate molding prediction requires good material data

• What was the material data in the simulation based on?
• Was data on the actual material available?
• Was the data a substitute?-a resin of the same generic family but has a