Die optimization design and experimental study of a large wallboard aluminum alloy profile used for high-speed train

The extrusion die plays a crucial role in the quality control of aluminum alloy profile production. But in practice, the design of extrusion die is mainly dependent on the experience and intuition of die designers; thus, many times of modifications and experiments should be undergone until an acceptable product is gained. In this paper, the extrusion process of a large wallboard aluminum alloy profile used for high-speed train was simulated by means of HyperXtrude software, and the flow behavior of material and deformation mechanism in the die cavity were investigated. With the simulation results of the initial die design scheme, a nonuniform velocity distribution in cross-section of the extrudate was observed. For optimizing the die design scheme, two optimal schemes (adoption of double-step welding chamber and introduction of baffle plate) were proposed. Through optimization, the velocity differences in the extrudate for optimal schemes are decreased from 39.9 to 12.2 and 10.8 mm/s, respectively. Thus, the uniformity of velocity distribution was improved in optimal schemes. The extrusion die design methods for large wallboard profiles were summarized and proposed, including the design methods of baffle plate and double-step welding chamber. Through trial production, a sound wallboard aluminum profile with good geometric shape and high dimensional accuracy was gained. Additionally, the mechanical properties of the extrudate were examined by means of experimental method. It is found that the test results stratified the practical engineering requirements.