Empirical Modeling and Multi-Response Optimization of Laser Transmission Welding of Polycarbonate to ABS

Abstract

In present research, laser transmission welding of polycarbonate to ABS has been investigated through empirical modeling. The effect of laser power, welding speed, stand-off distance and clamp pressure on weld strength and track width is investigated using the empirical models developed by response surface methodology. Laser power and stand-off distance have shown the dominant effect on the weld strength and track width, respectively. Numerical and graphical optimization schemes are used to find out the optimal welding conditions which satisfy multiple objectives, simultaneously. The optimal welding parameter combinations are presented in favors of high welding strength and low track width. Overlay graphs are plotted by superimposing the contours for the various response surfaces. Optimal solutions are found that would improve the weld quality within the selected range of process parameters.