Optimization of plastic thermoform process with adaptive response surface methodology: a case study at Sahlan Plastic Co.

Abstract

In this study, optimization of plastic thermoforming process is considered. For this purpose, thermoform cup forming process of Sahlan Plastic Company operating in Balıkesir Industrial Zone was optimized by using Adaptive Response Surface Methodology (ARSM). This method is an optimization method by dealing with controllable variables and uncontrollable variables together. During the application phase of the study, the production of 200 ml white buttermilk glasses was discussed. Zone temperatures (4 different zones), mold speed, inlet water temperature, ambient temperature, coil cooling time are used as the factors, while the cup weights were measured as the output (response) and 48 observation values were taken. The relationship between weight and these factors affecting the weight is modeled with the regression equation. To determine whether the model is significant, the results for the coefficient of determination (R 2 ) and ANOVA analysis were examined. Then, for this model -which is found to be significant -the optimized production process parameters were determined, giving the weight of 5 g.