CT-based quality optimization of micro injection moulding

Early Stage Researcher (ESR) position for the optimization of CT-based quality of micro injection moulding

Description: The precise manufacturing of complex 3D micro parts, e.g in the injection moulding process, places high demands on process control. Strategies are necessary that allow a control of the process based on process variables, such as melt pressure, that are measured inside the mould cavity, where the process takes place. However, even the smallest state-of-the-art pressure transducers are not miniaturized enough to be installed in micro moulds. Therefore, ESR 11 will develop an integral quality control loop by using CT to indirectly assess optimal process variables. For example, CT can be used to control: (1) peak cavity pressure, to avoid incomplete filling or flash; (2) differential shrinkage, to avoid part warpage after ejection; (3) differential pressure values among cavities in multi-cavity moulds, to correct flow imbalances and to achieve uniform part properties. In addition, ESR 11 will develop an interactive relational database to correlate CT measurements of moulding defects to effective actions that the operator should perform in order to improve the moulding quality. ESR will apply similar approaches also for quality control of other micro manufacturing technologies. ESR 11 will benefit from the cooperation with ESR 10 for the calibration of the micro-measurements.

Secondments: During this project, you will do a secondment (of a few months) to KU Leuven (Belgium), NPL Management Limited (U.K.) and Eltek (Italy)

Duration: 36 months (enrolment in a PhD program at UNIPD)

Envisaged job starting date: between November, 1st 2013 and March, 31st 2014