Frequently Asked Questions

What is PoligonSoft and what is it used for?

PoligonSoft is a software designed for simulating all stages of the metal casting process. Its main function is to predict the behavior of molten metal and its final properties, as well as to identify casting defects during the design stage without the need for physical tests.

What types of processes can I simulate with PoligonSoft?

PoligonSoft can simulate all traditional casting technologies, including:

  • Sand casting
  • Chill casting
  • Investment casting
  • Lost foam casting
  • Die casting
  • Vacuum casting
  • Continuous casting
  • Centrifugal casting

Additionally, the software can model special processes such as heat treatments (quenching, tempering, normalization), use of exothermic mixtures, induction heating, and others.

What results can I obtain from a simulation in PoligonSoft?

PoligonSoft allows you to obtain the following results:

  • Temperature and velocity distribution of molten metal during mold filling.
  • Hydrostatic pressure.
  • Defects due to incomplete filling (misruns) caused by premature solidification.
  • Temperature fields and phases during solidification.
  • Shape and location of shrinkage cavities.
  • Macro and microporosity distribution.
  • Residual stresses and deformations.
  • Probability of hot and cold crack formation.
  • Physical properties of the part, such as hardness, structure, and strength.
  • Macrostructure: shape and spatial orientation of grains.
What are the system requirements to install PoligonSoft?

The minimum system requirements to install PoligonSoft are:

  • Operating system: Windows 10 or higher (64-bit).
  • Processor: Works on virtually any modern processor. The software uses multi-core calculations, so faster processors with more cores will complete calculations more quickly.
  • RAM: 8 GB.
  • Disk space: 3 GB free for installation, plus additional space for projects and results.
  • Graphics card: Compatible with OpenGL 3.0 or higher.
What types of metals and alloys can I simulate with PoligonSoft?

PoligonSoft allows you to work with a wide range of metals and alloys, such as steels, cast irons, aluminum, nickel, titanium, copper, zinc, and precious metals.
The software allows editing predefined materials or creating new custom materials for use in calculations.

Does PoligonSoft include a material database?

Yes, PoligonSoft includes a database of materials and alloys covering the properties of the most popular alloys. Additionally, it contains data on technological materials such as sands, ceramics, insulators, and exothermic materials. This database is editable and can be modified by the user according to specific needs.

If your material is not in the database, contact our technical support service. We will calculate the properties of your alloy based on its chemical composition and send you the results at no additional cost.

For more accurate simulations, it is recommended to perform laboratory tests on your specific material and use data obtained directly from the actual alloy.

What is PoligonSoft composed of, and how is it supplied?

The software is supplied through a modular system. This means that when purchasing a license, the user can select the modules they wish to include based on their needs. Each module is designed to address specific aspects of the casting process.

The Fourier (solidification, shrinkage, macro and microporosity) is mandatory, as it contains the base algorithm necessary for all simulations. The other modules are optional and can be purchased according to the user's specific simulation requirements.

What are PoligonSoft's free modules, and how can I get them?

Along with any commercial license, the Mesh (creation of 3D meshes from solid models), Master (simulation parameter setup), and Mirage (result visualization and analysis) modules are included.

These modules can be installed on any computer and do not require a license to operate. The commercial license is only needed to perform calculations, while preparation and result analysis can be done on unlicensed devices.

Does PoligonSoft offer a free trial version?

PoligonSoft does not offer a standard trial version, as its use requires specialized knowledge. However, at our discretion, we may grant a trial period to companies with trained staff or prior experience in other simulation systems.

What is the difference between Individual and Network licenses?

Individual licenses allow calculations to be performed on a single device only, and the license cannot be transferred to another computer.

Network licenses allow simulations to be executed on any device connected to the local network. A license server controls the number of active copies and ensures the number of purchased licenses is not exceeded. Additionally, these licenses can be temporarily transferred to devices disconnected from the network, such as for remote work or business trips.

Does PoligonSoft offer limited-time or perpetual licenses?

PoligonSoft offers both options: limited-time licenses (annual subscriptions) and perpetual licenses.

Annual subscriptions include access to updates and technical support while active. Once the subscription period ends, the software stops functioning.

With perpetual licenses, you can use the software indefinitely without additional payments. Free updates and technical support are included during the first year from the purchase date. After this period, a fee is required to access updates or technical support.

What is the installment payment plan?

An installment payment plan for PoligonSoft allows you to acquire a perpetual license by dividing the total cost into several payments over a maximum period of 3 years. During this time, the license is considered an annual subscription. If payments are not completed, the right to obtain the perpetual license is forfeited, and the subscription is canceled.

Upon completing the final payment, the license becomes perpetual without additional costs.

How can I contact PoligonSoft technical support?

You can contact PoligonSoft technical support by sending an email to support@poligoncast.com or by using the contact form available on our website. Be sure to include details about your issue, such as the license number and a detailed description, to expedite assistance.

Is technical support available in multiple languages?

Yes, PoligonSoft technical support is available in English, Spanish, and Russian. When contacting us, you can specify your preferred language for assistance.

What does PoligonSoft technical support include?

PoligonSoft technical support includes:

  • Assistance with software installation and setup.
  • Troubleshooting technical issues related to program operation.
  • Help with license activation and management.
  • Basic guidance on using the software modules and features.

Support does not include advanced or personalized training on software usage, development of specific simulations for projects, or client site visits. Additionally, it is limited to queries related to PoligonSoft software use and does not cover the client's production processes.

What happens if my license no longer includes technical support?

If your license no longer includes technical support, you can continue using PoligonSoft without restrictions on its existing features. However, you will not have access to updates or assistance with resolving technical issues. To restore access to technical support, you can purchase an additional support plan.

What training options does PoligonSoft offer?

PoligonSoft offers the following training options:

  • Video course: Available for free on the website for self-paced learning.
  • Online training: Sessions via video conferencing with a specialized instructor, lasting 4 days.
  • On-site training: Includes a specialist's visit to the client's facilities, with a minimum duration of 3 days.
Is training included with the purchase of a license?

Training is not automatically included with the purchase of a PoligonSoft license. However, the video course is available for free on the website. Online and on-site training options can be purchased separately based on the client's needs.
Online training for a group of no more than 4 people is included with the purchase of a perpetual license.

What topics are covered in PoligonSoft's basic training course?

The course program includes:

  • Basic requirements for 3D models and data needed to perform accurate simulations.
  • Construction of finite element meshes in the mesh generator.
  • Tools for automatic and manual mesh correction.
  • Configuration of the main simulation parameters in the Master module.
  • Working with templates, saving, and using them in daily tasks.
  • Setup of mold filling simulation using the Euler solver.
  • Setup of solidification simulation using the Fourier solver.
  • Setup of stress and deformation simulation using the Hooke solver.
  • Result analysis using the Mirage module.

The basic course does not include the study of specialized tools for vacuum, centrifugal, and continuous casting. It also does not cover the macrostructure and heat treatment module. If desired, these can be added to the main course for an additional cost.

What level of prior knowledge is required to participate in the training?

To participate in PoligonSoft training, it is recommended to have basic knowledge of casting process simulation as well as familiarity with using 3D modeling software. Being an expert is not necessary, but prior experience in these areas will make learning and benefiting from the course easier.