Fundamentals of Polymer Process Control

coinjection, injection compression, gas assist molding, etc.), Process control has been recognized as an important means of improving the performance and consistency of thermoplastic parts. However, no single control strategy or system design has been universally accepted, and the manufacturing systems continue to produce defective components during production. This paper provides an overview strategies in polymer process control, and discusses some of the difficulties posed by the complex and distributed processes. Objectives for ‘intelligent’ process control are presented. Finally, the potential benefits of integating product and process design are demonstrated.