Instrumentation and Computer Interface Design for Forward Extrusion Tool

ABSTRACT

This paper describes the instrumentation and computer interface design for an extrusion tool to monitor certain process parameters during forward cold extrusion. A load sensing component, i.e. load cell was designed and manufactured to measure the extrusion forces. The load cell consisted of an individual component within a die set mounted in a 200-tonne hydraulic press, designed to study forward extrusion of aluminum alloys. The extrusion load measurement is based upon a number of strain gauges bonded to the central section of the component. The extrusion force was transmitted through a pressure plate to the load sensing component. A linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) was used to provide an output on the punch linear travel during the extrusion process. Both the load cell and the LVDT were calibrated and a complete programme of cold extrusion of aluminum was carried out to validate the setup. The extrusion process was monitored using personal computer (PC) running LabVIEW softwar.