Magna International Inc.
Laser sintered die surface for a tool

Abstract:

A forming system includes a first die, a second die, and a cooling system. A sintered material is formed on opposing portions of the first and second die surfaces to form a relatively low thermal conductive die region. The first die and the second die have opposing, relatively high thermal conductive surfaces to form a relatively high thermal conductive die region. The cooling system is disposed in a thermal conductive relation with the relatively high thermal conductive surfaces. The sintered material on the opposing portions of the first and the second die surfaces cooperate to be on opposite sides of the work piece received in the die cavity. Portions of the work piece in direct contact with the sintered material are cooled at a cooling rate slower than that of portions of the work piece that are in direct contact with the relatively high thermal conductive surfaces.