A new sustainability competency assessment model for the optimisation of injection moulding process parameters / Nur Qurratul Ain Binti Adanan

Faculty of Manufacturing & Mechatronics Engineering Technology

Thesis (Doctor of Philosophy) -- Universiti Malaysia Pahang – 2024

Includes bibliographical references

Injection moulding stands as a broadly employed production method for crafting plastic components and items. The excellence of the eventual plastic product hinges significantly on diverse process factors that necessitate meticulous management throughout the injection moulding procedure. These factors assume a vital role in defining the physical attributes, visual appeal, and operational capacity of the end result. Furthermore, the adoption of sustainable manufacturing methods holds significance in mitigating the ecological consequences of industrial procedures, all the while upholding product excellence. The integration of sustainability principles into determinations regarding injection moulding process parameters demands a comprehensive outlook. Manufacturers must endeavour to harmonize product quality, procedural effectiveness, and ecological influence. This entails a meticulous evaluation of how each parameter influences both the calibre of the product and its ecological imprint. Key players in the industry prioritize crucial parameters within the injection moulding process to attain topnotch plastic goods. These process parameters exhibit interconnectedness, and attaining the optimal equilibrium necessitates an in-depth comprehension of the plastic material, mould design, and desired product properties. However, fewer of them concentrate on integrating sustainability competency, which also impacts the performance of process parameters. The objective of this study is to carry out a thorough series of experiments and analyses to advance the comprehension of how these factors influence the final product's quality. Subsequently, the incorporation of sustainability competency into injection moulding revolves around providing individuals and entities with the understanding, abilities, and perspective required to make well-informed choices that harmonize environmental, societal, and economic factors. The overarching aim is to promote practices that contribute to a future that is more sustainable and accountable. The regression results demonstrate an error of less than 1%, underscoring the significance of the optimised model. Hence, the established model is capable of quantifying the competency value that bridges mechanical properties and comprehensive competency by integrating attitudinal factors. This integration is achieved through the use of parameter selection via Design of Experiments (DOE) and the expert elicitation method. The evolution from the foundational model (prior to characterisation) to the proficient model is showcased by the introduction of operational team description and sustainability competency descriptors. These augmentations contribute context to the role of technical personnel within a productive and streamlined setting, crucial for nurturing innovation through the notion of knowledge creation, a concept highly esteemed by employers and stakeholders.