ABSTRACT
Finite element modelling offers a powerful, geometrically flexible and cost effective tool for quantitative analysis of processes such as injection moulding of elastomers. This chapter deals with finite element simulation of mould filling process used in manufacture of rubber products under non-isothermal condition. Using a two-dimensional coordinate system the mathematical model describing flow of an incompressible fluid can be written in terms of following governing equations. The developed finite element scheme is shown to generate useful simulations for the mould filling process. The selection of mould geometry and flow domain characteristics justify the use of viscometric approach in the simulation. CEF model has been employed to take into account both the visco-elastic behaviour of elastomeric fluid and non-isothermal nature of the process. A continuous penalty/Galerkin finite element scheme which combines efficiency with computing economy, has been used in order to solve the model equations.
