Studies on die designs in multi-hole extrusion process

Abstract In multi-hole extrusion process a billet is extruded through a multi-hole die and many products are extruded at a time with improved production rate. In the present study, 2-hole and 3-hole dies are used for extruding a lead alloy billet of 20 mm diameter to products of 3 mm diameter extruded parts. The holes on multi-hole dies are of conical shape with different angles and different die pockets. A comparative study has been carried out in finite element method using DEFORM 3D. The extrusion load, effective stress and the profile of the extruded products have been analysed. The die with pockets provided less varied extrusion load as compared to the conical die hole profiles. The effective stress distribution is more uniform with the extruded products from the dies with pockets as compared to conical dies. The stress relieve is better in the products from the conical dies.