Optimization of compression molding process for NR/EPDM elastomeric material

Hassan, Roslan (2017) Optimization of compression molding process for NR/EPDM elastomeric material. Project Report. Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka, Melaka, Malaysia. (Submitted)

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Abstract

Natural Rubber/Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (NR/EPDM) elastomeric is gaining popularity in the growing automotive industry owing to the fact in terms of sustainability. With extensive studies and increasing number of applications for future advancement, the need for accurate and reliable guide in processing this type of elastomer has increased enormously. Good mechanical properties are always the ultimate objectives. The present work, deals with the study of compression molding parameters (i.e. temperature, pressure, heating time and pressure time) and its effects against NR/EPDM elastomeric mechanical properties (i.e. ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and crosslink density) aim on establishing optimized setup of processing parameters. The optimization are achieve through Response Surface Methodology (RSM), Box-Behnken approach as the design of experiment. A mathematical model for each response is developed to access the relationship between the parameters. Adequacy of models is analyzed statistically using analysis of variance (ANOVA) in determination of significant input variables and possible interactions. Various diagnostic plots are evaluated to check the model effectiveness. Multi objectives optimization is performed through numerical optimization and predicted results are validated. The agreement between experimental and selected solution are found to be strong in between 93% and 96%, thus validating the solution as optimal run condition. The findings suggest that temperature and heating time is the main factor affecting ultimate tensile strength, whereas for crosslink density there is only one significant parameter which is temperature. UTS and crosslink density decrease with the increases of the temperature and heating time due to the degradation (temperature too high for NR/EPDM working temperature). Therefore, it is recommended to start the process below the NR/EPDM degradation point to avoid from the scissoring rubber take place and subsequently improving the mechanical properties.

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