The SIGMA simulation software is a joint research project between leading industrial companies and Kunststofftechnik Paderborn. The programme is used to simulate compounding and processing operations on co-rotating twin screw extruders. The annual user meeting took place on 23 February. Here, Kunststofftechnik Paderborn presented the new SIGMA version to the project partners. In contrast to the previous user meetings, this year's event was held digitally.
The new version 13.0 is characterised by a further increase in user-friendliness and the implementation of new functions. This includes a revision of the user interface and the introduction of new slug elements. Furthermore, SIGMA now includes a rating system that supports the user in creating a suitable plant configuration. Furthermore, the extended SIGMA3D interface and the new features of the Extrud3D module were presented to the participants. Through this work, the automated post-processing of three-dimensional flow simulations could be further expanded. In addition, the team presented current research results on material degradation in co-rotating twin-screw extruders.
In the further course of the project phase, the user-friendliness of SIGMA will be continuously expanded through constant revision and the development of further functions. This concerns in particular the further development of the element evaluation towards a wizard for plant configuration. The investigations of the material degradation and the implementation of additional functions regarding three-dimensional numerical flow simulations are also further advanced. Through the exchange with the participating project partners, additional suggestions for the further course of the project could be collected.
Company representatives from BASF, Brückner Maschinenbau, Covestro Deutschland, Evonik Industries, KraussMaffei Extrusion, Leistritz Extrusionstechnik and Reifenhäuser Extrusion Systems were present.
