Multi Objectives Performance Optimisation Of NR/EPDM For Compression Molding Process: Parameters Investigation

Rosman, Muhammad Rafiq (2019) Multi Objectives Performance Optimisation Of NR/EPDM For Compression Molding Process: Parameters Investigation. Project Report. UTeM, 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 an increasing number of applications for future advancement, the need for an 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), crosslink density and rubber fatigue behavior) aim on establishing optimized setup of processing parameters. The optimizations are achieved through the Response Surface Methodology (RSM), Box Behnken approach as the design of the 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 the 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 an 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 the scissoring rubber take place and subsequently improving the mechanical properties.

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