Non-isothermal Modelling and Optimisation Methodology of the Injection Moulding of Rubber Products

Abstract

The process of injection moulding is regarded as a combination of separate operations linked by certain process parameters. The first part of this study presents a mathematical model of the non-isothermal flow of rubber mixes along mould sprue channels, taking into account all the main features of the injection moulding process. On the basis of this model, an attempt is made to develop a methodology for optimising the injection stage. Diagrams linking the main process parameters are plotted. The second part of the study is devoted to the final stage of this cycle – the vulcanisation stage. The presented mathematical model of non-stationary heat conduction takes into account the heat evolution from the chemical reaction of vulcanisation and the temperature dependence of all thermophysical properties. On this basis, an attempt to develop optimisation methodology for this stage is presented. Diagrams are plotted that link the main process parameters of the vulcanisation stage with the previous stages of plasticisation and injection.