Finite element analysis of polymer melt flow in cable‐covering crossheads

Abstract

Abstract A finite element method is presented for the analysis of isothermal non‐Newtonian polymer melt flow in narrow channels of complex shape. The particular application considered is flow in cable‐covering crossheads. The geometric flexibility of the finite element method allows a mesh of triangular elements to be constructed to suit the shape of the flow channel. Computed results obtainable from the analysis include the distribution of polymer layer thickness on the finished cable, together with the extrusion pressure required to maintain a given flow rate of melt. Some typical thickness distribution results are presented as an introduction to experimental verification of the method and its application to crosshead design.