Studies regarding the use of a neuro-fuzzy mathematical model in order to determine the technological parameters of the polyethylene pipes butt welding process

Abstract

Abstract. The paper analyzes the possibility to use a neuro-fuzzy type mathematical model, with the final goal of establishing the welding parameters for new types and dimensions of pipes and fittings. Anticipating the developing dynamic of polyethylene-made elements, especially pipes and fittings, starting from the current situation when already a wide range of pipes and fittings with different wall thicknesses and nominal working pressures is produced and commercialized, and taking into account also new development, it was considered necessary to find out the welding parameters for any new pipe type and dimension. The usage of existing welding equipment for new pipe dimensions is impossible without a preliminary set of welding parameters: pressure, temperature, time. Based on experimentally validated data for discreet values of the characteristic welding parameters, there was generated, using mathematical laws and functions, a new model that can estimate the necessary values of the welding parameters for any value within their variation range. As a result, the mathematical model created using neuro-fuzzy techniques allows the obtaining of the correct value for certain parameters (e.g. required welding pressure) for any values of the input variables pipe diameter and pipe thickness. General aspectsThe paper analyzes the possibility to use a neuro-fuzzy type mathematical model, i.e. a logical system that is an extension of the multi-criteria evaluation logic, with the final goal of determining the welding parameters for new types and dimensions of pipes and fittings.Anticipating the developing dynamic of the polyethylene materials, especially pipes and fittings, starting from the state of the art when already a wide range of pipes and fittings with different dimensions, wall thicknesses, nominal working pressure are produced and commercialized and looking towards new ones (intermediate diameters with specific wall thicknesses), it was considered necessary to find out the welding parameters for any new pipe type and dimension.Using the existing welding equipment for new pipe dimensions becomes impossible without having a preliminary setup of the welding parameters: pressure, temperature, time.