Tool Engineering and FEM

STRECON deals with four kinds of HPS projects. One kind concerns the development of a stripwound tooling solution for replacement of an existing multi-ring container platform. The objective is to improve the performance of the HPS process and service life of the die and the anvil.

Another kind of project is to build a larger system size in order to increase the cell capacity and yield of the single HPS process. This type of project explains the trend towards larger cell system sizes, for example Ø130 mm and up. 

A third kind of project is the development of a completely new tooling system for a new HPS product line. Today, we see a growing interest in building industrial HPS platforms capable of running at 65 Kbar and higher. STRECON has developed industrial HPS tool systems for 65 KBar, 70 KBar, and 80 KBar.

A fourth kind of project is the one to optimize a current STRECON HPS tool platform. It may concern further service life optimization of the die and/or anvil, increasing the cell size within the same tool platform, etc.

Because of the complexity of the HPS tooling, all new projects are subject to tool engineering - often using FEM analysis. While analytical programmes can assist in developing the principal tool system and layout, FEM is required in order to determine the optimal tool design, the interference fit, and calculation of the expected die bore contraction and initial expansion. The FEM work is based on the MSC.MARC from the MSCsoftware, and an advanced STRECON developed material model. These analytical tools ensure a highly reliable estimate on the calculated stresses and strains in the individual system.

Tool Engineering, not HPS Process

STRECON has specialized in tool engineering, design, and manufacture of stripwound tool systems for various HPS systems and processes. But we do not engage in the actual cell design, components of the capsule, the HPS process layout, etc. The reason is simple: We do not do HPS products - however, we make engineered tool systems. We want to be our client's trusted partner, not his potential competitor. And our policy works!