> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dante-solutions-inc.gitbook.io/dante-6.3-help-documentation/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dante-solutions-inc.gitbook.io/dante-6.3-help-documentation/introduction/build-dante-models-for-aluminum.md).

# Build DANTE Models for Aluminum

Heat treat simulation using DANTE starts with a solid model of the part. DANTE users can use Abaqus CAE to build simple geometries directly for this task or import CAD models from third-party CAD software. STEP (.stp) files are recommended for importing CAD geometries into Abaqus CAE, but .igs files will also work. From the solid model, an Abaqus finite element model must be constructed. Generally, the following steps are used to create the finite element model, either directly in CAE and the input file or using the DANTE Plug-In:

1\. Generate the solid model in Abaqus CAE or import a CAD geometry from a third-party software

2\. Generate a [mesh](https://github.com/DANTE-Solutions/DANTE-6.3-Docs/blob/main/Build%20Heat%20Treat%20Models%20for%20Steel/Meshing/Meshing.md) that describes the solid model geometry

3\. Assign a material to the mesh

4\. Define the simulation steps that are used to describe the actual process being modeled

5\. Define the initial conditions of the simulation

6\. Define and assign the boundary conditions of the simulation

Steps 1 and 2 can be completed in Abaqus CAE or a third-party CAD software that can generate a finite element mesh. Steps 3 thru 6 can be completed using Abaqus CAE, Abaqus CAE and Abaqus input file modification, or the DANTE Plug-In. The DANTE Plug-In also generates an Abaqus input file and can be executed from a command prompt if needed. All methods require the steps shown above.

For an aluminum hardening process, two finite element models are required:

1\. A transient [thermal](/dante-6.3-help-documentation/introduction/build-dante-models-for-aluminum/build-aluminum-models-using-plug-in/al-thermal-model.md) model.

2\. A static [stress](/dante-6.3-help-documentation/introduction/build-dante-models-for-aluminum/build-aluminum-models-using-plug-in/al-stress-model.md) / displacement model.

The DANTE Thermal Model and Stress Model are sequentially coupled as shown below.

<figure><img src="/files/vYs38ZFNKWz4UVscxUz1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

DANTE can also use the coupled thermal-stress analysis capability of Abaqus/Standard. This may improve computation time, but it may also slow the analysis down. This has to do with the amount of information that must be shared between the two models. At times, cuts in the time step may be required; whereas, if the analysis was carried out sequentially, the analysis could continue without the time cut. It is up to the user which method is preferred. Since deformations are generally small during quenching operations, a sequentially coupled method is acceptable. For large deformation processes, such as hot stamping, a coupled thermal-stress analysis is required.