Troubleshooting tips for plastic injection molding

Many companies apply scientific principles to their setup and validation of processes. After all, this methodology has proven its worth as a successful approach in process development. However, it is important to note that scientific molding (SM) goes beyond setup. The true test of processors is how they evaluate the change in validated processes that have already been proven. This article will define criteria that identify root causes for change and provide information and approaches to evaluate and correct changes that occur. The key to successful troubleshooting when changes occur is understanding that the initial validated process serves as the foundation, and variances outside of established control limits are detrimental to established process control parameters.