Design on an inductive hot-end for FMD 3D-printing using QuickField

Webinar recorded on May 22, 2025 by Eltimir Peev.

In this webinar we will design an induction heated hot end for a 3D printer using QuickField. First, the problem is introduced and the motivation for the design presented.

An example AC-Magnetic problem is set up, together with a coupled thermal problem, in order to gain insights of the interaction between heat generation and heat conduction. Optimum system oscillation frequency is explored through a parameter scan using the LabelMover utility. Scripting with ActiveField and Python is introduced. An optimum geometric configuration of the coil is derived through numerical optimization with SciPy and ActiveField.

In order to account for temperature dependent electro-magnetic properties of materials, a step-wise simulation, alternating between AC-magnetic and thermal problems is set up, driven by a python script. Finally the use of soft magnetic materials for flux concentration is explored and core losses simulated.

• Watch recorded webinar:
  
  Timestamps:
  00:00 Introduction
  03:25 AC-magnetic Problem setup
  15:41 Setup of coupled thermal problem
  23:28 Optimization of system oscillation frequency using Label Mover
  28:05 Intruction to ActiveField and coil geometry with Python
  33:40 Design and modelling of flux concentrator
  37:24 Setup of ftep-wise AC-magnetic and thermal simulation
  41:13 Summary and conclusions
• Download simulation examples.