External gas-assisted mold temperature control and optimization molding parameters for improving weld line strength in polyamide plastics

In this study, we present a novel approach to injection molding, focusing on the strength of weld lines in polyamide 6 (PA6) composite samples. By implementing a mold temperature significantly higher than the typical molding practice, which rarely exceeds 100°C, we assess the effects of advanced mold temperature management. The research introduces a newly engineered mold structure specifically designed for localized mold heating, distinguishing it as the 'novel cavity.' This innovative design is compared against traditional molding methods to highlight the improvements in weld line strength at elevated mold temperatures. To optimize the molding parameters, we apply an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) in conjunction with a Genetic Algorithm (GA). Our findings reveal that the optimal ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and elongation values are achieved with a filling time of 3.4 seconds, packing time of 0.8 seconds, melt temperature of 246°C, and a novel high mold temperature of 173°C. A specific sample demonstrated the best molding parameters at a filling time of 3.4 seconds, packing time of 0.4 seconds, melt temperature of 244°C, and mold temperature of 173°C, resulting in an elongation value of 582.6% and a UTS of 62.3 MPa. The most influential factor on the PA6 sample's UTS and elongation at the weld line was found to be the melt temperature, while the filling time had the least impact. SEM analysis of the fracture surfaces revealed ductile fractures with rough surfaces and grooves, indicative of the weld line areas' bonding quality. These insights pave the way for significant improvements in injection molding conditions, potentially revolutionizing the manufacturing process by enhancing the structural integrity of the weld lines in molded PA6 samples.